Media

Although a world away, the dire situation in the North African nation of Sudan deserves our attention – and more importantly, our action.

I am now pleased to see action on this issue: just days ago, Secretary of State Colin Powell declared that genocide has occurred in the western Sudan region of Darfur.

“We concluded that genocide has been committed in Darfur and that the government of Sudan and the Janjaweed bear responsibility and genocide may still be occurring,' Secretary Powell testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

I know – from personally talking to so many of you – that I am not the only one experiencing sticker shock every time I pull up to the gasoline pump. Gas prices are at record-breaking highs – and prices are only expected to go higher as the vacation season kicks in.

While these have been challenging times in America’s war on terrorism, I know that many of you join me in the belief that in the end, we will win the war on terrorism, providing millions of people around the world with the democracy they deserve. We have heard lately the reports about some disturbing actions on behalf of a few of those who serve our country. I believe they are few and far between.

Many Americans have helplessly, and literally, watched as the nation’s broadcasters have filled our airways – and homes – with often offensive programming.

Most recently, I joined many of you in outrage after watching the now-infamous 2004 Super Bowl half-time performance just a few weeks ago. That single event has even further increased the American public's awareness of the problem, and the need to clean up the airwaves. It just may have been the straw that “broke the camel’s back.”