SEN. BYRD REMAINS WAR DISSENTER - Polls Support President Bush

(03/09/2003)
Senator Robert Byrd spoke out Friday night on a possible war and President Bush on the Larry King Live (CNN). Byrd, Washington's most outspoken critic of war with Iraq, believes the United States isn't under direct attack from Iraq and the Bush administration is undermining the United Nation's credibility.

He said the the administration has failed to build support for the attack, and "going it alone" and will set a precedent with serious consequences for years to come.

Byrd said the Bush administration is acting hastily and not listening to the American people, although most recent polls indicate support for Bush. He believes there is skepticism about a preemptive strike against Iraq.

Byrd said he is concerned other nations are turning away from the U.S.

An opponent of President Bush, the 85-year-old Democrat said this administration is the most partisan one he has served with in his 50 years in Congress.

Byrd, who favors talking over fighting, believes North Korea and its nuclear program is a bigger threat to the U.S., but the Bush administration doesn't want any alternative to a war in Iraq.

He said the administration should continue to press for disarmament in Iraq and enter into talks with North Korea.

On March 17, Byrd will become the third longest serving member of Congress.