Another Republican in Congress Calls for Afghanistan Exit

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from Politico: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1109/29962.html


Rep. Jason Chaffetz: Bring home Afghan troops


Saying it’s time for Republicans to do more than “take pot shots at ACORN,” freshman Utah Rep. Jason Chaffetz will call on President Barack Obama on Monday to bring U.S. troops home from Afghanistan.

Chaffetz told POLITICO the issue “has been probably the most difficult one as a freshman in the minority.”

“So much of this is easy, black and white, but Afghanistan is very different and very difficult,” he said.

“I can take pot shots at Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now all day long, and I’m good at it,” Chaffetz said. “But even though I am probably going against where the party is on this traditionally, I just think we need to stand up and support the notion that it is time to bring our soldiers home.”

Earlier this year, Chaffetz traveled to the region and said that, since then, he’s “become more engrossed in my conviction it is time to bring our troops home.”

“I am opposed to nation building, and I quite frankly don’t see or understand what victory looks like,” he said. “I believe, as most people do, that our military can do everything we want them to do. ... But we’re asking them to fight a war that is not very well-defined. And we are asking them to do so with one hand tied behind their back.”

Chaffetz said the House GOP is divided over whether to “go big or go home” and acknowledged that the “go home” contingent is probably in the minority.

[rucky]

1. Interesting.

The contrary nature of the opposition. I can't wait to see if this catches on. Next thing you know the teabaggers will be holding peace rallies and candelight vigils.

Political theater is turning into a Beckett play.

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2. It's likely some district challenge from the left

. . . motivating most of these 'converts' against the occupation. It's still not likely to result in some alliance of the right and left in any significant way when voting begins, but it is a wedge against the occupation which will impact the debate and the politics surrounding the president's choice.

[rucky]

3. I wonder if the contrary side of the left will send some of us through the rabbit hole.

It's becoming apparent that opportunity - not principles - are driving both sides.

[ShortnFiery]

4. Yes, it's driving the war hawk dems who wish to look "tough" and the GOP who want to trip

up ruling democrats at every opportunity.

WE, the liberal wing of the democratic party, only wish for SANITY and the end of American bloodshed.