Denver, Colorado - Today, Colorado Democratic Party Chair Pat Waak joined Democratic leaders across the country in unveiling the Democratic Party's comprehensive plan for providing the American people with real security. The agenda stands in stark contrast to the dangerous incompetence of the Republican leadership, which has undermined the security of the American people. In fact, according to a recent DNC poll, the Republican rhetoric is not working, as Americans want policies that are both tough and smart and offer real solutions.

The Democratic plan for real security comes as the Republicans' record of failure on national security has undermined public confidence in Colorado and across the country in the ability of Republicans to keep Americans safe and secure. According to the most recent Pew Research Center for the People and the Press poll, President Bush's national approval rating has dropped to a paltry 33 percent, while the latest NBC News/Wall Street Journal Poll found that 61 percent disapprove of Bush's handling of the war in Iraq. [NBC News, 3/15/06; Pew Center, 3/15/06] Here in Colorado, President Bush's approval rating has dipped to 36% [Survey USA, 3/15/06]

While Republicans in Washington have failed to take the steps necessary to protect the safety and security of communities across America, Democrats today announced a new plan, entitled "Real Security: The Democratic Plan to Protect America and Restore Our Leadership in the World." The plan outlines a bold vision for how Democrats will lead on National Security.

Colorado Democratic Party Chair Pat Waak issued the following statement:

"From rubber stamping President Bush's permanent commitment to a failed strategy in Iraq to maintaining a pre-9/11 mindset that has kept them from providing the resources to close vital gaps in our homeland security, Republicans have failed to take the steps necessary to keep Colorado communities safe and secure. The people of Colorado want change, not more of the same misleading rhetoric and failed leadership.

"That is why I am proud to join Democrats across America today in offering a new direction. Democrats understand that homeland security begins with hometown security. That is why we have put forth a bold agenda for keeping America safe by rebuilding our military and National Guard; providing our first responders the equipment and training they need to keep our communities safe; securing our ports and our nuclear power and chemical plants; and promoting a real plan to make America energy independent by 2020.

"Democrats are also offering a bold national security strategy that is both strong and smart. We are committed to making sure that 2006 is truly a year of transition in Iraq, to hunting down terrorists like Osama Bin Laden and to providing our troops the tools they need to stop future attacks. Instead of continuing to follow President Bush's failed leadership, Republicans should join Democrats in fighting for an agenda that will provide Real Security for the American people."