On Capitol Hill, Democratic Senator Edward Kennedy said he’d introduce legislation requiring congressional support for any further escalation of the Iraq War.

Sen. Edward Kennedy: “Our bill will say that no additional troops can be sent and no additional dollars can be spent on such an escalation, unless and until Congress approves the president’s plan. … We cannot simply speak out against an escalation of troops in Iraq. We must act to prevent it.”

Democratic leaders have not endorsed Kennedy’s proposal and instead say they’ll introduce nonbinding resolutions on President Bush’s plan as early as next week. At the White House, Press Secretary Tony Snow urged Democrats to back the president.

White House Press Secretary Tony Snow: “Democrats are going to have to make a choice on where they stand in terms of two issues. Number one: Do you want Iraq to succeed, and if so, what does that mean? Number two: Do you believe in supporting the troops as you say, and how do you express that support?”

The first wave of new U.S. troops is expected before the end of the month. Most will go to Baghdad followed by Anbar province. The prospect of an expanded military occupation is meeting fears in Baghdad.

Baghdad resident Abu Haider: “All the stances of America are indications of negative positions towards society and its citizens. Their decisions and credibility are negative. They damaged this country. They said that they are here to spread freedom and democracy in Iraqi society, but they did nothing but bring terrorism.”