Clinton Calls on Senate Armed Services Committee to Investigate Circumstances of Fallon Resignation [View All]

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March 12, 2008

Clinton Calls on Senate Armed Services Committee to Investigate Circumstances of Fallon Resignation

Urges Committee Chairman to Call Hearings

Washington, DC – Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton today called on the Senate Armed Services Committee to hold oversight hearings in order to gain a better understanding of the circumstances surrounding the resignation of Admiral William Fallon as Commander, U.S. Central Command. In a letter to Chairman Carl Levin (D-MI), Senator Clinton, who sits on the committee, voiced concern that Admiral Fallon may have been coerced to resign because of his willingness to offer unfiltered, independent advice.

“Admiral Fallon was a sensible and reasoned voice within the Pentagon on the need for a multi-pronged strategy toward Iran that would include support for engagement. He stood in stark contrast to an administration that has used inflammatory rhetoric against Iran,” said Senator Clinton. “I am asking that the Senate Armed Services Committee hold hearings to shed light on the circumstances of his departure.”

The text of Senator Clinton’s letter follows:

March 12, 2008

The Honorable Carl Levin
Chairman
Senate Armed Services Committee
228 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Chairman Levin:

I am writing to request that the Senate Armed Services Committee hold oversight hearings to gain a better understanding of the circumstances surrounding the recent resignation of Admiral William Fallon as Commander, U.S. Central Command.

As you know, Admiral Fallon was a voice of reason in an administration which has used inflammatory rhetoric with respect to Iran, and I am deeply concerned by indications that Admiral Fallon's decision to resign may not have been his own. I believe it is in the interest of both our military and the policy making process for flag officers to be able to express their professional, unfiltered advice to civilian leaders. Regrettably, Admiral Fallon is resigning at a time when his straight speaking style would provide our nation with the unfiltered advice we need as we seek a new direction in Iraq and the region.

As you know, I strongly oppose any efforts by the Bush Administration to take our country to war against Iran, and I have urged the Bush Administration to pursue diplomacy, including direct talks with Tehran, at its earliest opportunity.

I know that you share my commitment to providing effective oversight of the Department of Defense through the work of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Holding hearings to gain a better understanding of the circumstances surrounding Admiral Fallon's resignation would contribute to the Committee's important mission.

Thank you for your consideration of this request. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Hillary Rodham Clinton

http://clinton.senate.gov/news/statements/details.cfm?id=294680&&



Sen. Hillary Clinton heads to the Senate floor for a vote, Thursday, March 13,2008, on Capitol Hill in Washington.