Some in GOP break with White House on Iraq

WASHINGTON, Feb. 15 (UPI) -- Twelve Republicans in the House of Representatives have broken ranks with the White House to support a resolution condemning the Iraq troop surge plan.

The 12 Republicans spoke against Bush's war plan Wednesday as debate over the troop surge continued in the House, The New York Times reported Thursday.

The Republicans supporting the resolution against the surge include long-time war critics Rep. Walter Jones, N.C.; and Rep. Ron Paul, Texas, as well as representatives who have been less openly critical of the conflict, including Rep. Fred Upton, Mich.; and Rep. Jim Ramstad, Minn., The Washington Post reported.

The post quoted a Republican lawmaker speaking on condition of anonymity as saying more members of his party -- possibly as many as 60 -- are expected to join those breaking the party line during debates Thursday.

Rep. Ric Keller, R-Fla., also voiced support for the resolution, saying a troop "surge" was previous attempted in Baghdad.

"The benefits were temporary," he said. "The body bags were permanent."