Issue Position: National Security

Issue Position

Our men and women in uniform deserve not only the equipment necessary to complete their mission but the support of this nation as well. It is not the role of politicians in Congress to make strategic decisions about the military. Our Generals in the field are best equipped to decide what our troops need and what the mission demands.

We have seen success in Iraq thanks to the courageous work of our brave servicemembers. Their sacrifice and dedication to their mission have dramatically reduced violence against our troops and the civilian Iraqi population. Under a strategic agreement between the United States and Iraq, American forces will begin returning home having achieved success. However, these types of strategic decisions should continue to be made based on conditions on the ground.

The hard work of our troops in Afghanistan has been vital in dismantling terrorist camps in that country and limiting their ability to plan attacks here in the United States. However, it is clear that there remains a difficult challenge ahead to build stability in Afghanistan and keep the Taliban and terrorist organizations like Al Qaeda from establishing a strong hold to intimidate and attack nations throughout the region -- in particular Pakistan -- and around the world.

A thorough and continuing review of the strategies being pursued in the War on Terror will ensure we remain capable of protecting American families while honoring the brave men and women who serve.

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