Weekly Democrats' speech calls for gradual withdrawal from Iraq

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http://www.volunteertv.com/Global/story.asp?S=4981578

Weekly Democrats' speech calls for gradual withdrawal from Iraq

MONTPELIER, Vt. This week's Democratic response to President Bush's radio address will call for a drawdown of troops from Iraq.

The speech recorded in advance by a Vermont state senator says the U-S should make sure that 2006 marks a "significant transition to full Iraqi sovereignty."

Peter Welch says Iraq needs "clear benchmarks" to move closer to military independence. And he says troops need to be prepared to move out and move on to fight what he calls "a smarter war on terrorism."

Welch is seeking the open congressional seat currently held by Independent Bernie Sanders. His likely Republican opponent is Martha Rainville, the first woman to command a state National Guard