In this election cycle, the main focus of foreign policy has been Iraq. Over six years have passed since the United States overthrew Saddam Hussein. Foreign policy extends beyond Iraq, but because of Iraq’s prominence, foreign policy is inextricably linked to that country.

Sen. John McCain believes in strengthening our military to fight a new enemy. He does not call for new wars, but to equip the future generation of American soldiers to better defend America from terrorism. McCain calls for modernizing our military and strengthening it for future battles instead of relying on past successes. For this reason, he called for a surge of troops in Iraq. His plan was a departure from the status quo, which brought traditional victories over a conventional enemy. Instead, he risked his political future so that America would succeed. McCain said he would rather win a war than win an election. As a result of his bold and strategic plan, violence in Iraq has decreased over 80 percent in the last two years. He pledges to continue fighting until we achieve victory by the standard of those on those ground rather than those in the halls of Washington, so that our troops return home with pride and honor after a job well done instead of retreating with shame and defeat. McCain has the experience to make substantive foreign policy decisions.

Beyond Iraq, McCain has the experience to lead our nation in times of crisis. He is the Senior Republican on the Senate Armed Services committee. He has traveled to over 69 countries, met with countless leaders, opposes torture, and will continually fight against injustice. McCain will apply the same vision and resulting success in his plan for Iraq to the entire range of international relations and foreign policy.