Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, the conference report accompanying H.R. 2055 clearly states that Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta has the ability to create the Afghanistan/Pakistan Study Group. I worked closely with members of the House and Senate to include the funding for this important panel and I am extremely pleased that it is now possible for it to become a reality. Despite numerous requests for Secretary Panetta to create this panel using his existing authority, he has steadfastly refused to do so. His letter of November 3, 2011, which I include for the Record, states that he believes ``fresh eyes'' have already been put on our mission and strategy in Afghanistan. He neglects to mention whether his definition of ``fresh eyes'' includes those who devised and implemented the current U.S. strategy. It is clear that his strategy in Afghanistan and Pakistan has not yet been successful--and the American people are concerned about the outcome. I also include for the Record my initial letter to President Obama outlining the importance of the Af/Pak Study Group, as well as letters of support from prominent foreign policy experts. This panel presents the Obama Administration with the opportunity to engage the brightest minds outside of government in reviewing current strategy in South Asia and bring their considerable experience to bear to ensure that we have the best possible strategy going forward in this vitally important region. Mr.…”