Rangel wants to reinstate draft

A New York Congressman wants to reinstate the military draft.

“What troubles me most about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan is the total indifference to the suffering and loss of life among our brave young soldiers on the battlefield,” U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel, D-N.Y., said in a statement. “The reason is that so few families have a stake in the war which is being fought by other people’s children.”

The draft would apply to citizens between 18 and 42 years old.

“The test for Congress, particularly for those members who support the war, is to require all who enjoy the benefits of our democracy to contribute to the defense of the country,” Rangel added. “All of America’s children should share the risk of being placed in harm’s way.

“In other words, if you support the war, you should support a compulsory military draft,” Rangel said.