Charlie 'Rangeling' with the idea to reinstate the draft

(Washington- WABC, November 20, 2006) (WABC) -- No one has been drafted in the U.S. since 1973. But that would change if New York's Senior Congressman Charles Rangel has his way. He plans on proposing legislation to reinstate the draft and possible end the scenario he believes thrusted the U.S. in the war in Iraq.

Eyewitness News reporter Ken Rosato is live in Gramercy Park with the story.

Congressman Charles Rangel said today that come January he plans on introducing legislation to reintroduce the draft. He believes that will then level the "playing field".

Turn 18, become eligible for the draft. New York congressman Charles Rangel, the incoming chairman of the house ways and means committee, now says he wants to see just that, and plans to introduce a bill next year requiring Americans ages 18 and up to sign up with selective service.

Rep. Charles Rangel, (D) New York: "You cannot increase the military without thinking about the draft."

Not everyone was sold on the idea.

Richard Grosseto , Veteran: "Volunteer army is fine, I don't believe in the draft.

Latoya Sapir , student: "In this day and age we shouldn't be going to war anyway. I don't think it's suitable for all citizens to be going to war. I wouldn't like to be enlisted."

Congressman Rangel, a Korean war veteran himself, says there would not have been a war in Iraq if the children of elected officials were forced to join the military. And that at the very least, he wants hearings about a draft so that military officials can explain themselves.

Rep. Charles Rangel, (D) New York: "The draft is an option, we got to find out why do we need troops in the first place."

If legislation for a draft does eventually pass the House, it must then face a tough battle in the Senate. If it does happen to clear that hurdle then it may very well face the veto of President Bush.

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