In January, 2003, we wrote about draft proposals pending in Congress. This was after Charlie Rangel and John Conyers, both Democrats, came out for a draft, apparently under the assumption that if the kids of rich congresspersons and senators had to serve, Congress would vote against any war. (Of course, who knew back then that Bush would decide on his own to declare war against Iraq?) Following Rangel and Conyers, Sen. Fritz Hollings (D-SC) introduced a companion version of their bill in the Senate. In April, 2004, Republican Senator Chuck Hagel endorsed a reinstatement of the military draft.

In checking on Thomas, the Federal Legislation Server back then, it's clear that members of both parties have sponsored or co-sponsored bills or resolutions opposing the draft---just as members of both parties have introduced bills to reinstate it. It doesn't seem to be strictly a Republican/Democratic or Conservative/Liberal issue. (For more history on this, read Objector.Org's position paper on rumors of a 2005 draft.)

It may not be a party issue, but it is a candidate issue. Despite his statements to the contrary, Bush may reinstate the draft. This is supported not only by his "stop-loss" orders extending soldiers' duties in Iraq and the acknowledgement that there is a shortage of soldiers for a prolonged war, which seems to be what we're in for with Bush at the helm, but also by actions of the Selective Service System,(more here), whose directors and members serve under the direction of his Administration.

On the other hand, John Kerry and John Edwards have stated unequivocally there will be no draft if they are elected.