Saturday morning, Senate President Pro Tem Peter Welch delivered the Democratic response to President George Bush's weekly radio address.

"We must ensure that 2006 is a year of significant transition to full Iraqi sovereignty," said Welch. "We must establish clear benchmarks for the Iraqis to take care of their own country and defend themselves, so that we can transition our troops out and move to fight a smarter war on terrorism -- including doing a better job of securing our ports and our borders.

"Our troops deserve to be treated like the heroes they are and should never face months of waiting for something as critical as health care. Yet, as recently as two weeks ago, the Republican Congress voted against saving veterans from paying $735 million in increased health care costs, and to maintain a tax on military families."

Welch concluded, "It is time for accountability, credibility and competence when it comes to Iraq. When I get to Washington, I pledge to work for all three as part of a new Congress that offers a new direction for our country."

Welch was selected by the House Democratic leadership to deliver the party's weekly radio response.

Click here to read Peter's complete address.

Click here to listen to Peter's complete address.