SPEECH OF
HON. RON PAUL
OF TEXAS
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
2010 Ron Paul 4:1
Mr. PAUL.
Madam Speaker, I rise in reluctant
opposition to this resolution. Certainly I
am moved by the horrific destruction in Haiti
and would without hesitation express condolences
to those who have suffered and continue
to suffer. As a medical doctor, I have
through my career worked to alleviate the pain
and suffering of others. Unfortunately, however,
this resolution does not simply express
our condolences, but rather it commits the
U.S. government
“to begin the reconstruction
of Haiti”
and affirms that
“the recovery and
long-term needs of Haiti will require a sustained
commitment by the United States. . . .”
I do not believe that a resolution expressing
our deep regret and sorrow over this tragedy
should be used to commit the United States to
a “long-term” occupation of Haiti during which
time the U.S. government will provide for the
reconstruction of that country.
2010 Ron Paul 4:2
I am concerned over the possibility of an
open-ended U.S. military occupation of Haiti
and this legislation does nothing to alleviate
my concerns. On the contrary, when this resolution
refers to the need for a long-term U.S.
plan for Haiti, I see a return to the failed attempts
by the Clinton and Bush Administrations
to establish Haiti as an American protectorate.
Already we are seeing many argue that
this kind of humanitarian mission is a perfect
fit for the U.S. military. I do not agree.
2010 Ron Paul 4:3
Certainly I would support and encourage the
efforts of the American people to help the people
of Haiti at this tragic time. I believe that the
American people are very generous on their
own and fear that a U.S. government commitment
to reconstruct Haiti may actually discourage
private contributions. Mr. Speaker, already
we see private U.S. citizens and corporations
raising millions of dollars for relief and reconstruction
of Haiti. I do not believe the U.S.
government should get in the way of these
laudable efforts. I do express my condolences
but I unfortunately must urge my colleagues to
vote against this resolution committing the
United States government to rebuild Haiti.
