GOP Presidential Candidate John Cox Speaks Out on Patraeus' Comment on Iraq

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: Laura Grock/Martin Janis & Co.
(312) 943-1106

September 13, 2007

(CHICAGO, IL ) - This is John Cox's statement concerning recent statements by Gen. Petraeus and the Democrat response:

"Gen. Petraeus is all about staying the course, making slow but sure progress on the security front to give time for what he and the media call, 'political reconciliation." This is shorthand for the idea that the government will finally get its act together, resolve the oil agreement, and figure out a way to get electricity and water and other basic services fully functioning in Iraq.

The only problem with this is that the government hasn't demonstrated the ability or the inclination to get their act together. The American people are not going to sit for another four years watching these politicians haggle; nor will the Iraqi people who are tired of no electricity and no improvements in their economic situation.

What we would do if NYC were suffering like this? We would consider it an emergency and we would do what we need to NOW to get the economy moving and basic services restored.

The Democrats don't seem to have a solution either. On the "Today Show," Barack Obama explained his prescription consistent with the Democrat party line: just get out and that will get the government working. This flies in the face of common sense as well as recent experience. When we leave there, what will happen? Al Qaida and Iran will both step up their insurgency support. It is very likely the situation will get worse and that the oil will end up in enemy hands. What then, Sen. Obama?

What America needs is strong leadership and management. We may have to take up management of Iraq's oil ministry and production temporarily. We need an economic surge to go with the security surge that is working. We cannot wait for the Iraqi politicians to eventually get the message - we need to get them to act now."

If you are interested in interviewing John Cox or having him on as a guest commentator on this issue, please call Laura Grock at (312) 943-1106.

ABOUT JOHN COX

John H. Cox, 52, is the first announced Republican candidate for President in 2008. A self-made millionaire businessman and attorney, Cox made his fortune running successful companies in real estate, law, and venture capital. He helped turn around major potato chip manufacturer, Jays Foods, saving hundreds of jobs and turning millions of dollars in loss into profit. He served on the steering committee for Jack Kemp for President and on the boards of charitable organizations, such as the USO. He is a former president of the Cook County Republican Party in Illinois.

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