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The Conseravtive Edge was the first information, news and opinion outlet to call Obama’s escalation of the war in Afghanistan an attempt to vindicate his campaign rhetoric. Today, in news interviews with the left wing media, Obama all but confirmed CE’s postion. Here is part of a story from Townhall.com:
Obama said he’s asking this question now of the military regarding his plan: "How does this advance America’s national security interests? How does it make sure that al-Qaida and its extremist allies cannot attack the United States homeland, our allies, our troops who are based in Europe?"
"If supporting the Afghan national government and building capacity for their army and securing certain provinces advances that strategy, then we’ll move forward," the president continued. "But if it doesn’t, then I’m not interested in just being in Afghanistan for the sake of being in Afghanistan or saving face or, in some way, you know, sending a message that America is here for the duration."
Why is Obama asking the questions now? He sent 21,000 additional combat troops into the country last winter with no plan and no strategy for victory. Why didn’t he ask the questions then? He didn’t ask the questions last winter because he needed to make good on his campaign rhetoric.
During the campaign, Obama bitterly criticized President Bush for abandoning Afghanistan. According to Obama, Bush took his eyes off the ball when he decided to invade Iraq. But, anyone who was aware of the facts about Afghanistan, knew Obama was simply putting forth left wing campaign rhetoric. Al-Queada and the Taliban leadership went into Pakistan. And, just like Obama is doing now, Bush used predator drones and diplomacy with the Pakistani government to put pressure on Bin Laden on the Taliban.
But now, the reality of more troop deaths is hitting Obama hard. He is losing support on the left wing, and the left wing press can no longer ignore the situation. Our allies are having serious doubts about a continued presence in the country at the cost of so many lives. Obama will be granted a few more weeks to figure out to spin this, but then he will have to do something. Meanwhile, more soldiers are dying.
However, had the Republican leadership took the reins, they could have forced the issue sooner. Now, though, they have let Obama off the hook by calling for more troops. Sometimes you have to wonder about the intellect of the GOP leadership. It’s as though we have truly incompetent people running the country.
Update: Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell called for Obama to make a decision now on Afghanistan. According to the Senator, Obama enjoys bi-partisan support for more troops to be sent to the country, but Obama needs to act now. Why Republicans are supporting another escalation of the war is beyond bizarre since they never asked for a change in strategy when Bush was President. Al-Queada is not in that country, and whether they are allowed to return to Afghansitan by our withdrawal or they stay in Paksitan, they will pose the same threat. McConnell’s position is abject hypocrisy.
