Statement On The President’s Afghanistan Address

It is encouraging that President Obama has finally concluded his re-analysis of his previous Afghanistan strategy and granted the request of his own generals for reinforcements. Success remains within reach, but the President must deploy these forces expeditiously. He must make winning the War on Terror his top priority, instead of meeting arbitrary political deadlines for withdrawal. Setting a draw down date before this surge has even begun is a mistake, and it sends a mixed message to both our friends and our enemies regarding our long-term commitment to success.

President Obama's address follows: