U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) emphasized the importance of changing security policies and the plan for the war in Iraq in a speech Tuesday night in the Elliott School of International Affairs.

Boxer told the audience that the U.S. troops in Iraq need a defined objective, but said it is difficult when the reasons for entering the war have changed many times.

“I’ve never seen a president with no plan . and it’s almost like he takes pride in it,” Boxer said.

Comparing the situation to the Vietnam War of the 1960s, Boxer said sending U.S. troops to Iraq does not offer a solution to the diplomatic problems in the area.

“This is not a time for silence. This is not a time for indifference,” Boxer said. “We voted that this year . would be the year of significant transition.”

Boxer also discussed homeland security during her speech and accused the administration of not utilizing more advanced technology to implement greater homeland security mechanisms.

“It seemed like she was at ease (while speaking) and that fact appealed to the audience,” said sophomore Charlie Friedman. “She was very progressive in her approach, especially toward the war in Iraq.”

Her speech, which was sponsored by GW College Democrats, the GW Law Democrats, the Student Global AIDS Campaign and international affairs fraternity Delta Phi Epsilon, also attracted students from the other side of the aisle.

“I thought she served to bring a substantial voice from the GW College Democrats,” said Brand Kroeger, sophomore and vice chairman of the GW College Republicans.

While Kroeger added that he does not necessarily agree with Boxer’s viewpoints, he respects her ability to initiate debate.