On the recordMarch 17, 2011
Once again we are debating this issue. And once again I will vote in support of ending our involvement in Afghanistan. Our ongoing commitment in Afghanistan has proved exceedingly difficult and costly--and at a time when we can ill-afford the $100 billion a year to sustain it. After years of war, the economic and military costs are straining our servicemembers, their families, and the country--they are simply too high. President Obama increased our commitment there while also defining a goal of withdrawal. But our increased efforts have not yielded enough progress. I have joined with my colleagues in sending a letter, led by Rep. Barbara Lee, to the President supporting his planned drawdown of the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan beginning no later than July of this year. It is time to bring this war to a responsible end. Our brave men and women in uniform have fought well and continue to deserve our full support and commitment to return them home safely to their families and loved ones. They have fought with honor, at great cost, in the face of great challenges. I am humbled by their sacrifice. While I support the President and our military leadership, I believe we must send a message that the U.S. cannot sustain further commitments in Afghanistan. I believe the resolution before us today sends that message, and that is why I support it.
