Congresswoman Laura Richardson's Statement In Response To President Barack Obama's Speech On The War In Afghanistan

Statement

Congresswoman Laura Richardson released the following statement in response to President Barack Obama's December 1, 2009 speech on the war in Afghanistan.
"Tonight, President Obama said:

1) The current situation is not working and a new 18 month plan is needed.
2) The plan includes:
-Military effort of 30,000 troops
-Civilian Surge with performance standards and accountability
-Partnership with Pakistan
3) The United States had no intention of occupying Afghanistan OR controlling Afghanistan's resources.
4) As the United States deploys a military strategy, efforts will also be made to enhance our homeland security, intelligence, elimination of tools of mass destruction, diplomacy and re-establishment of alliances efforts, allowing us to finally come back to the driving force of our American values.
"Tonight, President Obama did NOT say:

"Since 2001, 900 United States soldiers have died, thousands injured with lifetime disabilities, and more than $220 billion spent on the war in Afghanistan. In addition, in 2009, the U.S. intends to have spent $60 billion dollars and tonight President Obama suggested spending another $30 billion.

"Tonight, President Obama did NOT say:
1) How are we, the United States, going to pay for continued operations in Iraq and Afghanistan?
2) How many tours will our soldiers have to serve without sufficient breaks in between?
3) What will United States citizens not be able to achieve domestically due to the war expenditures?
4) Will the President support an aggressive domestic agenda that will significantly and tangibly reduce unemployment for rural and urban America and not just Wall Street?
5) What resources and troops are our allies (43 nation coalition) willing to commit and for how long?
6) After the 18 months, how long will it take to draw down the troops and at what cost and would any Americans remain in any capacity?
7) What tangible assurances do we have that Pakistan will be a true ally and join the U.S. as a full fledged member in our joint fight for not just interests but results in this war on terror?
8) Is it feasible and is the Afghan government capable to complete the transition and maintain it?
"Tonight, the President said we have lost our balance of emphasis and resources between our national programs and national security. That is the most important point I agree with. I agree there is nothing more important than building our home and our nation, which is just as important as the repair of another nation. What good is security if we have nothing left to secure.

"As I am scheduled to visit Afghanistan later this week, I will take full advantage of briefings and the opportunity to meet with all parties responsible for implementing this plan on the ground. So I will reserve judgment regarding the president's position, giving me the opportunity to make the most informed decision possible. Tonight, as one of the 435 votes the President needs to pass his plan, he has not secured my vote yet."

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