An attack against Iraq could come as early as January if Saddam Hussein does not negotiate a settlement with the United States soon, U.S. Rep. Chris Cannon said at a meeting of the BYU College Republicans Tuesday night Oct. 22.

The Utah native, who is up for re-election in the 3rd Congressional District, responded to several questions about current national and world events including education, wilderness protection and Saddam Hussein.

"Hopefully he [Saddam] will have the sense to let this happen peacefully and we can liberate Iraq without using bombs," Cannon said.

Cannon was asked what he thought about Hussein releasing many prisoners recently.

"I don't understand his mind," Cannon said. "I would hope that it's an indicator that he's willing to talk."

Cannon also spoke about the war on terror in the rest of the world.

"I think we need to use whatever resources necessary to win this war," he said, adding the war on terror and on the states that support it will likely last another five to seven years.

Cannon said he hopes someday all the countries of the world will enjoy democracy. He became animated when asked how he could wish his way of life on all people when that is the reason so many people hate Americans. He responded that many people hate Americans because they are misinformed.

"If they don't have the social institutions that help them appreciate America then let's build up the social institutions," he said.

Another issue he addressed was the threat of terror on United States soil, specifically pointing to the sniper in the Washington, D. C. area.

"This is a hugely disruptive thing," Cannon said, adding that the work of the sniper may be giving ideas to other terrorists. "We are an open society and it's really quite easy to disrupt our society."

Closer to home, Cannon spoke of the problems facing education in Utah.

"We're spending the lowest in the country per student," he said, and it will likely be same in the future. He said eventually technology will solve the problem with computers and other things.

Cannon also addressed the problem of bankruptcy in Utah.

"We need bankruptcy reform so people will realize personal responsibility when they take out bankruptcy," he said.

Though most of those present at the meeting were Republicans, a few people identified themselves as Democrats. Cannon joked about trying to convince them otherwise.

When asked his opinion about John Swallow, the GOP candidate in the 2nd Congressional District, Cannon joked again.

"I think he has made some mistakes in his campaign," he said. "If there weren't a reporter in the room I'd tell you the whole d--- thing."
Copyright Brigham Young University 23 Oct 2002