Skelton Not Expecting Escalation of Violence over Execution of Saddam

The Chairman-designate of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee is back in the United States from a Christmas visit to Iraq, where he had a chance to meet with the troops. West-central Missouri Congressman Ike Skelton says that while the troops are working hard to do the best job possible, it is essential that the Iraqis take control of the situation in that country to bring about law and order. As for Skelton’s thoughts on the pending execution of deposed Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, he does not expect any negative impact to Americans. He does not think there will be any outpouring of sympathy over Saddam’s death, which could come any day. Skelton says Saddam was so brutal and vicious he will not be missed by too many people. Skelton will become Armed Services Committee Chairman when Congress convenes in January.