Yes, even during the Clinton Administration, Congressman Paul had the foresight to perceive that factions of our government were pushing for a conflict with Iraq. And not only did he see what was coming years before support for such a conflict found traction, but he spoke out loudly and forcefully on principle that it would be foolish, unconstitutional foreign policy.

The following is taken from the Congressional Record:

BOMBING IRAQ WOULD BE THE RESULT OF FLAWED FOREIGN POLICY
(House of Representatives - January 27, 1998)
Mr. PAUL. Mr. Speaker, it appears the administration is about to bomb Iraq. The stated reason is to force UN inspections of every inch of Iraqi territory to rule out the existence of any weapons of mass destruction. The President's personal problems may influence this decision, but a flawed foreign policy is behind this effort.

Why is Iraq a greater threat to U.S. security than China, North Korea, Russia or Iran? They all have weapons of mass destruction. This makes no sense.

There was a time in our history that bombing foreign countries was considered an act of war, done only with a declaration by this Congress. Today, tragically, it is done at the whim of Presidents and at the urging of congressional leaders without a vote, except maybe by the UN Security Council.

But the President is getting little support and a lot of resistance from our allies for this aggressive action.

Sadly, our policy in the Middle East has served to strengthen the hand of Hussein, unify the Islamic Fundamentalists and expose American citizens to terrorist attacks. Hussein is now anxious for the bombs to hit to further stir the hatred and blame toward America for all the approximate he has inflicted on his people.

Though the media and the left are quick to assert that this is Bush's war, it has been an issue of serious consideration before September 11th and even before Bush took office. Paul understood then and understands now that those people directing or influencing policy from behind closed doors are a threat to liberty that needs to be exposed. Paul knew his comments in the Congressional Record wouldn't have much of an impact on Clinton's policy, but he knew that if more people were aware it would be more difficult for the administration to carry out a foolish preemptive war.

It seems some candidates, particularly on the Democratic side, like to play the "I spoke out first and loudest against the War in Iraq" game, but ironically the now-Republican candidate would win that squabble hands-down. Maybe the Dems are looking at the wrong party for their candidate.

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