Porter Goss: “on April 11, the Associated Press ran a story that I believe bears noting: ``Postponed Elections, Unrest, Could Prolong…”

“on April 11, the Associated Press ran a story that I believe bears noting: ``Postponed Elections, Unrest, Could Prolong U.N. Mission.'' That one small headline speaks volumes. Keep in mind that there are more than 2,400 American troops on the ground in Haiti still and that we have already spent in excess of $1.4 billion on that small Caribbean island. Although the May update from the administration on the situation in Haiti is not available yet, I think we all understand that the possibility of a longer mission--even under the auspices of the United Nations--equals more American tax dollars and more exposure for our troops. With that possibility clearly on the table, perhaps the President will refocus his attention on Haiti for a moment to give us a candid answer to this candid question: Despite all of the money, time, and manpower the United States has already poured into Haiti, are we really headed for a longer term commitment than February 1996? It seems to me that we are.”