Afghanistan

Which candidate do you agree with on...

Issue Position |

President Obama has agreed to transition U.S. forces to a training, support and counterterrorism role in Afghanistan by 2014, which would require the Afghan government to largely handle its own security . Obama has called for more international funding to help Afghanistan bolster its security forces. He had increased U.S. troops there to roughly 100,000 at the height of the war and then began withdrawing them in 2011.

Coalition combat troops are scheduled to leave Afghanistan by 2014 under an agreement between NATO and the Afghan government. The president has indicated he wants a gradual drawdown, but the top U.S. commander in the region, Marine Gen. John R. Allen, has said there should be no significant departure of troops in 2013.

In May 2011, Obama ordered a joint operation by the CIA and U.S. special forces that killed terrorist leader Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad, Pakistan.

Endorse

Obama on Afghanistan

331 Comments

Reader Endorsements

Michael Nunziante He has demonstrated sound leadership and the ability to make tough decisions in the Afghan conflict. Along with Bin-Laden, the President has elimated many of Al Qaeda's leaders.

Bill Maiden President Obama has planned our withdrawal from Afghanistan when Afghanistan Forces are able to take care of themselves. Romney wants to keep troops in Afghanistan indefinately. Republicans don't know how to build jobs or the economy without war. Republicans are ...See MorePresident Obama has planned our withdrawal from Afghanistan when Afghanistan Forces are able to take care of themselves. Romney wants to keep troops in Afghanistan indefinately. Republicans don't know how to build jobs or the economy without war. Republicans are war mongers. Remember John McCain's song of "BOMB, BOMB, BOMB.--BOMB, BOMB IRAN". I couldn't and can't believe it. I think the Beach Boys should charge him for use of their tune.

Angela Laidley bringing the troops home and ending the wars

Donthavetime ForGames he helped with osama

Dadou Dadou Db Romney has pretty much emulate Obama;s plan. If it aint broken why fix it.

Gabriel Brown Osama's dead. We should already be the hell out of these ridiculous (and enormously expensive) foreign entanglements.

Jack Gallagher We have no business remaining in Afghanistan. We've done all we can, and any further involvement will just make things worse

Bill Gallagher The job is done in Afghanistan. We cannot make them ino a stable country, they will have to do that.

Kate Anderson President Obama ended the Cheney profitable war franchises

Peg Warren We are war-weary. I fear very much for the women of Afghanistan if the Taliban regain power. However, it IS the responsibility of the Afghani government to protect all its citizens.

Kate Anderson Obama Commander in Chief, Romney Commander in Cheats

Sean J. O'Rourke Military command comes from the President to the generals on the ground, not the other way around.

Jamie Deveaux This war was wrong for so many reasons not the least being it was based off of lies.

Bobby Jones The billions of dollars used to maintain a presence in Afghanistan can be used for nation building at home.

Michael Minjack Because GEN'LS like to fight just like golfers luv to golf; Karzai's gov't is bad news!

Twyla Dorzweiler We need to bring our guys and gals home. This is not a war to stimulate our economy, as is the mindset of the GOP, this is a war killing off our young people, making victims of many of them. ...See MoreWe need to bring our guys and gals home. This is not a war to stimulate our economy, as is the mindset of the GOP, this is a war killing off our young people, making victims of many of them. The Afghan people are a strong people with completely different ideals and values. We need to give them the 'freedom' to make their own choices.

C Fred Crawmer time to leave n let the Afgan's determine their end game...we can't afford to be the world's goal keeper except for those countries who's populate truly endorses Democracy then they won't need us anyway!!

Robert Crane Republicans got us into this with lies. I don't trust them to get us out.

Daniel Tawarahara I hate war

Jim Traxler He put emphasis on getting Bin Laden and securing Afghanistan, which was ignored by the Bush administration. Now he is holding the Karzai government's feet to the fire by putting a limitation on how long we will be there for ...See MoreHe put emphasis on getting Bin Laden and securing Afghanistan, which was ignored by the Bush administration. Now he is holding the Karzai government's feet to the fire by putting a limitation on how long we will be there for the transition to their security forces. Ironically, Romney basically now agrees with that policy, although he was against it during the primaries.

Dave Dockery We need our troops back home. The war is costing a fortune not to mention killing young men and women and for what?

Andrea Burrow President Obama inherited the war. He worked with the military. He understands when enough is enough. He also understands that we need an army that meets the world we are in not the .world of WWII

Carmin Liz The President has done a wonderful job, I trust him

Savitri Basaviah Nation building at home and not nation building elsewhere.

Courtney English The Obama Administration has been consistently firm about their intentions on Afghanistan and made decisions based on logic and economics

Patrick Espinoza The quagmire that the President inherited was going to nowhere not like his opponent wants us to stay. It seems like the war on drugs, have we gotten close to winning that yet?

Miriam Hyde There have been mistakes, but even Romney*** now agrees with the President on managing Afghanistan. We can't get out of there too soon for me! ***Well, Romney agreed during the 3rd debate. Who knows what he's thinking today!

Felipe De Leon Brown President Obama wants us out of that quagmire while his opponent wants us to stay.

Eugene Barufkin He is follow the correct plan.

Linda Carol Wickham-Young Bring the troops home, get out of Afghanistan.

Kitty Jawitz Obama 2012

Robert Miller While neither Romney or Obama served their country militarily one did serve as a community organizer while Romney actively evaded the draft, fled to France under cover of his religion while others his age were being killed for their country ...See MoreWhile neither Romney or Obama served their country militarily one did serve as a community organizer while Romney actively evaded the draft, fled to France under cover of his religion while others his age were being killed for their country in Vietnam. And he supported both that war and the draft while doing this. He is a chicken hawk and coward of the first order.

BeenThere DoneThat I endorse the same plan that Mitt Dumbney endorse, the President's plan.

Vera Delle Brown After over 10 years and two Billion dollars per month, I believe it is time to redirect our resources to building the US instead

Mike Munoz it's overdue to pull the troops back home, if the majority of Afghan people still backing-up the Taliban, then leave them alone...the u.s. can use the money to improve the economy at home than somebody else country..

Edward Bryan Gulf War 1 / 2 / 3, OIF / OEF / OND Death Count Numbers from 2007 Gulf War deaths 1990 till present Total U.S. Military Gulf War Deaths: 73,846 – Deaths amongst Deployed: 17,847 – Deaths amongst Non-Deployed: 55,999 ...See MoreGulf War 1 / 2 / 3, OIF / OEF / OND Death Count Numbers from 2007 Gulf War deaths 1990 till present Total U.S. Military Gulf War Deaths: 73,846 – Deaths amongst Deployed: 17,847 – Deaths amongst Non-Deployed: 55,999 Gulf War Deaths, Injuries and Diseases Total U.S. Military Gulf War Deaths: 73,846 – Deaths amongst Deployed: 17,847 – Deaths amongst Non-Deployed: 55,999 Total “Undiagnosed Illness” (UDX) claims: 14,874 Total number of disability claims filed: 1,620,906 - Disability Claims amongst Deployed: 407,911 - Disability Claims amongst Non-Deployed: 1,212,995 Percentage of combat troops that filed Disability Claims 36% We are in our seventh Cancer cycle 2012, from the 1990/1991 War http://www.deathindexes.com/ssdi.html All Social Security Death Index results for Gulf War Veterans Matches 1–20 of 507,298 Sorted By Relevance 507,298 divided by 5,000,000 = 10 % have died We need the three ring binder for VA Physicians to be educated and put back on the shelves. The book is now off the shelf since 2008. The book was printed in 2003 time frame. Total amount of Gulf War Veterans to present over 5,000,000,000. This includes all Veterans that served from 1990 to the present time. The VA group us all to include Operation New Dawn. This is just like Vietnam.

Cee Bee President Obama knows what he is doing. He will continue to keep the United States of America safe from terrorists.

Princess Peyton Manuella Nelly we need our soldiers back home to their families instead of going picking war and killing. that has to end

Gail Mcauliffe We must stop killing people with drones_ let Afghans defend theseves against crazy Taliban so many reasons esp our 16 trilion dollar debt.

Biz Dev GM is alive and OBL is no more.

Washington Jeff I want this young men and women to come home.

Persephonae Velasquez We're leaving in 2014.

Edward Murray Because he has kept his word. And he keeps his word. I never know what Williard is going to say next just to be popular.

Louis Montalvo-Realtor Afghanistan... people need to stand up and fight for what they believe with their own tow feet, their two hands, and their heats and become independent.

Nancy Rayne We said we would let Afghanistan take care of Afghanistan and that we would train and support them while they transition. Did we stutter?

E. Ann Powell Let Afghanistan take care of Afghanistan.

Theresa Smith I agree that the people of these countries MUST eventually take responsibility for their own future. America cannot be a permanent baby sitter in the middle east.

Mary McGrail He had a plan to get out when we when in!!!

Richard Mann Good, Luck .. Car-zie.

Kent Sweitzer Obama has the experience and the ability to phase out of the Afghanistan war on a targeted time-line knowing that the majority of Americans believe that the war has already cost too much and lasted too long. Further, Obama has ...See MoreObama has the experience and the ability to phase out of the Afghanistan war on a targeted time-line knowing that the majority of Americans believe that the war has already cost too much and lasted too long. Further, Obama has the incentive to reduce the cost of the war and use the funds better for real investments in the American economy.

Frances O McCannon He stuck with him plan

Florence Symister He had a plan and he has stuck to it. He is a man of his word.

David Oliver Taylor While I may not have agreed with idea of a withdrawal deadline in the first place, once it's out there, stick to it

Brenda Clements Our troops are coming home in 2014. Mission Accomplished!

Jorge Gomez Hie is bringing our troops back home as he promised.

Zoraida Rivera Again i say, President Barack Obama has our backs and is acting on behave of all American Soldiers and their families. We must not minimize thet he took care of Bin Laden when others wouldn't.

Patty Sportsman Hello...Our Navy Seals took out Bin Laden. I trust Obama's decisions to pull out the troops and let Afghanistan stand on their own two feet by 2014!

Nellie Nell I trust that Obama would protect Americans better!

Otis Zeon He ended the war in Iraq, and The war in afghanistan is ending, American Heros are coming Home!

Linda Shoaf Acker I trust him more on foreign affairs.

Jonas Delva He has a clear plan to get us out of Afghanistan in 2014.

Anne DiFiore He has a plan. We haven't heard anything from his opponent.

Catherine Ratliff Our troops must be replaced by Afghans and Afghans have to know it's for real.

Robert D. Reynolds I really feel that Romney would continue the Military after 2014.

Jack Nixon Level head.

Mario Ferreira For Stopping the loosing Wars that are Bankrupting the Nation. He kept his promise in many issues even without the Congress.. Democrats/Independents ought to kick the Repubs from having power for many decades for screwing up this Nation during the ...See MoreFor Stopping the loosing Wars that are Bankrupting the Nation. He kept his promise in many issues even without the Congress.. Democrats/Independents ought to kick the Repubs from having power for many decades for screwing up this Nation during the Bush/Cheney years.

WaterBoys Apperal I trust his judgement

Ann St Clair We need to leave in an orderly way, and when we said we would.

Carmen Spoor I don't trust Romney not to prolong this. War is big buisness to the neocons. It's time to bring the troops home.

James Worthen He ended the Iraq War so I know he will end this one also.

Jake Lester The main difference between what the two nominees are saying is that Romney would not have announced a set timeline for withdrawal (although it is hard to know where Romney stands). I spent four years in Iraq and know that ...See MoreThe main difference between what the two nominees are saying is that Romney would not have announced a set timeline for withdrawal (although it is hard to know where Romney stands). I spent four years in Iraq and know that the government there would never have stood up unless they knew that we are serious about leaving. The Afghanis must have a deadline to stand up, or they never will. This is better for us and for them.

Verma Cooke-hutchinson America needs to get out of other people's business. The President is correct to end wars we don't need to be involved in.

Vera Gbedemah hes goog at it

Laura Jaselle Fisher

Troy Ziesmer After Last Nights debate do you really need to ask? Romney was fact checked by the moderator and lost.

Robin Farrell Oleck I think he is on the right track. This is not a situation that can be solved overnight.

Barbara French President Obama is right to draw down our troops and end the Afganistan War. Republicans want to start more wars.

Shawn Robinson It is better to withdraw our troops and allow Afghanistan government to govern their own country, that's not our right nor our problem. The American government will never fully withdraw from anywhere where we have made military advancement but it ...See MoreIt is better to withdraw our troops and allow Afghanistan government to govern their own country, that's not our right nor our problem. The American government will never fully withdraw from anywhere where we have made military advancement but it is wrong to be under the presumption that we must protect other countries against themselves unless they show otherwise.

Angela King It is evident Romney politicized the unfortunate attack. His speech after, his mix up on what Prez Obama said in the Rose Garden. Romney scares me. He "Shoots first and aims later".

Sam Harris He has pulled out soldiers already and gave more reign to the afghan government

Sydney Epps I wanted the US out of Iraq the day after they went in. If we're not going to destroy completely, let's not waste our time attempting to coax the Middle East out of oil, which is all this occupation is ...See MoreI wanted the US out of Iraq the day after they went in. If we're not going to destroy completely, let's not waste our time attempting to coax the Middle East out of oil, which is all this occupation is about.

Athena Hacker I agree with what Vice President Biden said in his Kentucky Debate with Mr. Ryan; That unless we give the country and their police force a deadline, at which time we will leave with no ifs ands or buts, they ...See MoreI agree with what Vice President Biden said in his Kentucky Debate with Mr. Ryan; That unless we give the country and their police force a deadline, at which time we will leave with no ifs ands or buts, they will never step up to the plate. They will forever be content with us running things. It's high time we let them to their own business.

Sheila Beaudoin A people have to be taught to take care of themselves. We would want the same respect. That said, before the Libyan attack Republicans used to complain that Obama had stayed in Afghanistan too long and spent too much money. ...See MoreA people have to be taught to take care of themselves. We would want the same respect. That said, before the Libyan attack Republicans used to complain that Obama had stayed in Afghanistan too long and spent too much money. Which one do they actually believe?

LindaScherer Card Lujan Allan Of course - we need to bring our military home and let the Afghanies fight their own battles.

Angela Parente Because I trust him, and don.t trust Romney at all

Eric Hadley-Ives We long ago accomplished our mission, and it is time for the people of Afghanistan to determine their future without our spending blood and treasure supporting a corrupt president there.

Catfish Beans Because we need to get out of Afghanistan ASAP. No more wars. Leave the Middle Eastern Countries alone. Just because their culture is very different from our own isn't reason to believe they want us to intervene and make things ...See MoreBecause we need to get out of Afghanistan ASAP. No more wars. Leave the Middle Eastern Countries alone. Just because their culture is very different from our own isn't reason to believe they want us to intervene and make things worse.

Charles Thomas look here we went after the people who attacked us and ended up in a 12 year groung war.My father spent his adult life in uncle sams army and I was born on military in base France lived on them ...See Morelook here we went after the people who attacked us and ended up in a 12 year groung war.My father spent his adult life in uncle sams army and I was born on military in base France lived on them growing up,never seen a civilian doctor until age of 18, I believe in our military.We have the tools to watch everything these people are doing and I think most of you know that.Sence when has war been to police othe nations? our policy is if you attack us we will kill you and start doing just that.Just like in high school the staff would come out and chase us out of our smoking aera, for a while we would split up,but wewould find anothe hide out and congreate again ,well so will the bad guys,they will train and laugh at us until BOOM.

Robert Johnson Bin Ladin is dead and my friends are coming home.

Ansara Lee Sr. he killrd bin laden

Lisa Baker Invading didn't work for the British twice and most recently is pretty much finished off the USSR, which is now just Russia. We need to get out from a military occupation and get other countries, like China - who is ...See MoreInvading didn't work for the British twice and most recently is pretty much finished off the USSR, which is now just Russia. We need to get out from a military occupation and get other countries, like China - who is mining all the lithium for batteries, to help with security so the population can stabilize after decades of war.

Thom Isanski Mission has been accomplished...Bin Laden is dead, Al Qeuda is desimated. Time to wind it down, bring the troops home, and start rebuilding AMERICA.

James Penick Breiling The President, not military commanders, set the goal(s) for the military and make overall policy decisions regarding the course and ending of military actions.

Jennifer Arnold He will get our troops out as soon as he can

Joyce Scurry He is the best man for the job. He is not wishy washy

Vincent Flament Time to go home!

Edwin Dorn Afghanistan is a mess for which there is no good solution, but I trust Obama's calm reason over Romney's bluster.

Carl David Smith Jr Romney the "JOB" will never be done

Ilse Genovese Has a deadline for getting out of Afghanistan. The Afghanis don't want us there, kill our people, so would we want to stay even a minute longer than planned.

David Levin Seen up close from freinds coming back this is a hole wihtout a bottom. We can't spend our way to educationg them into the 19th centry, let alone the 20th. We wil have to be vigilant though, ias t will ...See MoreSeen up close from freinds coming back this is a hole wihtout a bottom. We can't spend our way to educationg them into the 19th centry, let alone the 20th. We wil have to be vigilant though, ias t will remain an open sore, but we lack the wherewithal to solve it, at best we can only police against what issues forth from Afghanistan.

Leslie Mason It is a big world with shared interests and this should be one of them - more international support and resources are needed - it would also be nice to see others who are and aspire to be world powers ...See MoreIt is a big world with shared interests and this should be one of them - more international support and resources are needed - it would also be nice to see others who are and aspire to be world powers play a larger role in not only the conversation but more importantly the mission.

Eliner Tryon Elgin Afghanistan needs to handle their own security. Think of it this way - how many citizens here in the US would like another country determining our security measures?

Judith McEwen should handle their own security

Robert Stone Afghanistan has been a mess from the beginning and the sooner we get out the better

Michael J. Gould Our military men and women achieved their mission when the Taliban was removed from power, the terror camps were destroyed, and Afghanistans went to the polls and participated in elections. Bring the troops home now!

Iris Adams Cheney dupped us into believing our national security was at stake when in fact Bush ignored the signs of the impending 9/11 attacks and plunged us into a prime time war. Bottom line. We should never have been there.

Michele Squires Because I want to continue feeling safe with a President who uses diplomacy and thought when it comes to foreign affairs. Romney is an ill-informed businessman who's last concern is for our safety.

Rob Wood he is not a flip flopper

Mara E Meyer This is inherited -We need to get out of there. We should be available for guidance if needed, but not war!

Rubye Armorer Because he was able to pull us out of Iraq on time and he has a time line for Afghanistan where in our withdrawal is necssary, so that the Afghan government can handle their own security.

Mounir Keshen I agree withe president, time put in place to withdraw all troops. As we know America is the father of the world, that's what makes them great. the U.S. has to put in place the Afghans security that they will ...See MoreI agree withe president, time put in place to withdraw all troops. As we know America is the father of the world, that's what makes them great. the U.S. has to put in place the Afghans security that they will be able help them selves. If they don't seize the opportunity, they lost it by 2014 that is fair enough.

Destiny Hubert While I did not agree with the announcing of withdrawal the President is correct on the handling of Afghanistan

Fatima Baeta It's over due for our soldiers to get out. Let them finish fighting within themselves, or; whomever.

Helen Hayes He is doing what he promised, to wind down that war and bring our troops home. He got us out of Iraq and put our full attention to Bin Laden. He's focused, he understands and he listens.

Diana Kitch Mitt has $ tied up in Afghanastan, I am pretty sure. Obama would like a quick exit as soon as he can decently do it, I am pretty sure.

Shirley Shelton I endorse President OBama because he is more aware bout foreign affairs. In addition, he is more trustworthy than Romney due to OBama has a stable stance on the issues than Romney. I feel if Romney became president, he would ...See MoreI endorse President OBama because he is more aware bout foreign affairs. In addition, he is more trustworthy than Romney due to OBama has a stable stance on the issues than Romney. I feel if Romney became president, he would tell the U.S. citzens one thing and do another. Moreover, he would tell China Republic one thing and tell Americans something else; and for we know it China will be governing the United States. If Romney cannot stay true to his platform, How can he stay true to the voters. Romney does not understand, he cannot treat United States citizens as employees.

Fran Powers An eleven year war is too long

Rondalyn Everson He is going to end the war and bring our troops home. Do it now.

Barry Schnur We need to get out of Afghanistan -- the sooner the better. Romney appears to believe in a permanent military presence in Afghanistan.

Moru Souare ONLY Obama cause Romney has even forgotten about the US troupes in his RNC speech in Tempa, He just doesn't care, they know how to start a war but not how to end.

E-sir Vedasto Its simple. It took 8 long years to drag this country to the ground, why would i expect this president man to bring it back up in 4 yrs. Obama policies are working and people need to give him time ...See MoreIts simple. It took 8 long years to drag this country to the ground, why would i expect this president man to bring it back up in 4 yrs. Obama policies are working and people need to give him time to finish what he started

Joe Mbu Sensible and balanced approach. Time to get out of here. We did not go there to build the nation

Raphael Connor Getting out as soon as we can is the right thing to do.

Willard Ross I believe the President is now more qualified than Mitt Romney for President Mitt is a nice guy but nice guys can get you in trouble, Afghanistan it a real trouble zone and our troops should be withdrawn immediately.

Christine Gray We went over there b/c of the 9/11 attacks. We got revenge yeah? Better rest up, we are venerable without a good defense on our own soil.

Tommy Phillips I THANK WE SHOULD GET OUT OF THERE THE SONNER THE BETTER

Carlos Omar Rodríguez Let the drones finish this one.

Mary Brown Trust.

Jerry Jewler It's time to let some nations fight their own wars and stop the killing of thousands of innocent Americans.

David A Shores Obama is extracting the US from a monstrous mess in Afgan. in a careful and respectful manner. Obama did not create that mess. Romney's understanding of international issues is poor (he collected campaign money in Poland and other countries; how ...See MoreObama is extracting the US from a monstrous mess in Afgan. in a careful and respectful manner. Obama did not create that mess. Romney's understanding of international issues is poor (he collected campaign money in Poland and other countries; how is that for sensitivity?).

Frank Waligora Romney got five sons who never were in the army He change his mind if his son were over there fighting

Brian Barrett We should exit a lost war with dignity

Millicent Hollins We need to remove ourselves from an aggressive action in this country at the same time do everything to restore the country we almost destroyed with our military.

Mattie B. Marshall Our with the KKK mentality...

Madeline Holt He thinks first. To get us out is a thought, killng Bin Laden is a thought, having a plan is another...

Leimomi Martin Afghanistan withdrawn Obama kept that promise.

Mayer Buxbaum We tried to help Afghanistan. What Mitt Romney said about the poor, I say about afghanistan. We tried to help them. However the level of corruption is so intertwined, that regardless what happens, we tried. If only George W and ...See MoreWe tried to help Afghanistan. What Mitt Romney said about the poor, I say about afghanistan. We tried to help them. However the level of corruption is so intertwined, that regardless what happens, we tried. If only George W and his idiotic defense secretary Rumsfeld, waisted so much money and goodwill on Iraq

Napoleon Holliman President Obama is the best Commander in Chief to lead our Military out of Afghanistan.

Norine Leithem We need to get out of Afghanistan- let's let our Commander-in- cief do his job.

Ezekiel Josephs We'll get out faster

Vicki Green President Obama has a proven track record. Romney has proven how badly he can mess up, if elected.

Emre SlashJr Kurt The economy is in the gutter as it is. Let's save money on military.

Jewels Ofthenile At least he has a timeline. It is time to get away from the wars and focus on OUR needs, the people of the United States of America. It is our turn.

Jesse Bowen Don't like either, but sticking with the guy with a timeline.

Laura Nina Thomas Obama because I believe him when he says he will bring our troops home in 2014.

Nancy Meehan Nicholson Enough is enough. Time to bring the troops home. I endorse President Obama's plan.

Kelley Gardner Obama because he has a plan to bring our troops home in 2014.

Gary Cross I endorse President Obama because he has a plan to bring our troops home in 2014.

Maeve Ryan Romney wants more wars. I don't want my brothers to go to war for something stupid. Romney is a big fat liar.

Michael Digiovanni The president has ended one mis-guided war, and is working to bring our troops home in another.

Richard Baham The President is pulling our Soilders out of Afghanistan.

Linda Dacosta he knows what he's doing

Jerry Planta AS A UNITED STATES VETERAN MY WISH IS THAT ALL OF OUR WARRIORS COME BACK HOME. IS TIME FOR THE USA TO BRING BACK OUR HEROES

Anastasia Aldridge We need to bring our troops home ASAP. We are not doing anything but creating trouble there.

Dan Mathews As a veteran I know this country is entirely exhausted of war, be it in Afghanistan or anywhere else. We've lost some of our most talented young men to this war plus Iran. Since the president has virtually eliminated al ...See MoreAs a veteran I know this country is entirely exhausted of war, be it in Afghanistan or anywhere else. We've lost some of our most talented young men to this war plus Iran. Since the president has virtually eliminated al Queda and it's leaders, with the Afghans now being able to begin full protection of their own people, the time is NOW to bring home the troops and I stand behind the president 100%.

Michael Sternfeld Mitt Romney was a draft doger during our generations war. Now he wants to send young men and women to war. He has no moral imperitive.He fled his own generations war by going to his local draft board and getting ...See MoreMitt Romney was a draft doger during our generations war. Now he wants to send young men and women to war. He has no moral imperitive.He fled his own generations war by going to his local draft board and getting a religious exemption to go to France as a missionary for 2 years. Shame on him!

Ken Lee JSOC, go get 'em, nuff said

Diane Ward we cannot afford to go backwards to the white is right and money talks era of the early 80's.We were fooled by Reagan once, we don't need his failed policies again. Romney is a fool to think we are a ...See Morewe cannot afford to go backwards to the white is right and money talks era of the early 80's.We were fooled by Reagan once, we don't need his failed policies again. Romney is a fool to think we are a stupid as he treats us..

Thomas Mosby Let him continue to get our troops out and his cabinet work with the Afghans for peace..

Barbara Forrest Because he's really good at what he does as President, and Romney has absolutely no foreign policy experience, nor does Ryan.

Jim Davis Because Romney is a shell of a human being, wrong on the issues that matter, and is terribly out of touch with the common American...plus he talks out of both sides of his phony mouth!

Mary Reynolds Bevil Don't trust Romney, If it were up to him we would be at war with Iran, Libya, and we would never leave Afghanistan. I'm tired of these never ending wars! It's time to bring our troops home!

Frederick Eshun He is realistic about the threat we face and has the best strategy to pull us out! If you want us to stay in Afghanistan for four more years, vote for Romney and he won't disappoint the military Industrial complex.See MoreHe is realistic about the threat we face and has the best strategy to pull us out! If you want us to stay in Afghanistan for four more years, vote for Romney and he won't disappoint the military Industrial complex.

Lucky Mesenko "We don't need more money, and I think we should wrap up this war and head home," said no military commander ever. A General who is a good leader wouldn't sit around and wait for the Colonels under his command ...See More"We don't need more money, and I think we should wrap up this war and head home," said no military commander ever. A General who is a good leader wouldn't sit around and wait for the Colonels under his command to come to a consensus about what is the right course of action, and we shouldn't expect the Commander-in-Chief to do the same, simply because there are senior military officers who want to continue the war. The fact of the matter is that whatever endeavor a military unit is involved with, they will always believe that there is something more they can do, and that more time, manpower, and money will make everything better. This is why there are several levels of civilians appointed over the military: Because even George Washington warned about the dangers of the military having too much power and too many resources.

Emberdink Humberdittle Afghanistan was another mess left for this President to clean up. Please, let's keep the adult in the room. Keep President Obama in the oval office, and let Romney go off and stuff hundred dollar bills in his mouth - ...See MoreAfghanistan was another mess left for this President to clean up. Please, let's keep the adult in the room. Keep President Obama in the oval office, and let Romney go off and stuff hundred dollar bills in his mouth - at least that will keep it shut, he's made enough gaffes already.

Patrick Ogunoh Already fulfilling his promise of getting us out of Afghanistan. We need to take care of our country.

Alvin Mccartney I BELIEVE WHAT HE SAYS NOT A FLIP FLOP MANY LIKE ROMNEY THAT TELLS ME WHAT I WANT TO HEAR THEN TELLS HIS RICH BUDS WHAT A PIECE OF SHIT I EM

Lytton Means May we please have a drum roll! Has anyone forgot what happened during Obama's watch? I'm speaking about the removal of Osama bin Laden. While I strongly believe we should be in Afghanistan; I have never believed it was a ...See MoreMay we please have a drum roll! Has anyone forgot what happened during Obama's watch? I'm speaking about the removal of Osama bin Laden. While I strongly believe we should be in Afghanistan; I have never believed it was a place where our system of government would have a permanent impact on Afghanistan. Look at history the UK , the USSR and even Alexander The Great failed before us. Its time to leave. Romney is wants to stay but I don't see any of his children taking the risks of serving in Armed Services.

Ilene Schefman reasonable

Sammie Rabb I like it.

Dan McGuinness Experience, proven leadership. Is President of all Americans, not just 47 Percent as stated by by his opponent.

Ron Vanderford Romney gets too much of his advise from neo-cons and he inanely stated that leaving Iraq was a tragedy.

Karla Walker My President is strong and in command when it comes to foreign policy. Romney is clueless!

Cheryl Baxter-Waller four years of expierence to 0 for the other candidate

Lloyd Scott He has a better understanding of ,and both domestic and foreign affairs than Romney does.Besides, Romney lacks both common sense and intellect.

Jeffery Smith Dont let Mott out of the country again.

Zipporah Wambui Elikanah smart guy

Chris McDowell i think he's just a better leader all the way around,

Lelani Fryfogle We need to be out off Bushes adventures

Leroy Brown because he is not tryin to sale me a fat out lie i beleive he care and need a little more time mitty is all over the place HE JUST DONT GET IT

Larry Bernosky This was a dumb war. We will be out in 2114 - although we should have left sooner.

George Henderson I have several friends in the military who have recently re-deployed to Afghanistan, but this time on a peaceful mission, to help the Afghan people to begin rebuilding their nation and to recover somewhat from the ravages of war. It's ...See MoreI have several friends in the military who have recently re-deployed to Afghanistan, but this time on a peaceful mission, to help the Afghan people to begin rebuilding their nation and to recover somewhat from the ravages of war. It's a tough job, but our troops are getting it done. With strong leadership, I'm confident that the present administration will bring our troops home at the proper time, as they have done with our troops formerly in Iraq. Mitt doesn't have the leadership skills to be commander-in-chief of a litter of kittens.

Patricia Wexler Obama knows i trust him Romney will open his mouth and he will say anything to get points

Raysa Stroud You've all seen the news... why ask why

Tzymotraklim Jorkzinw Because Mitt's only interest in the past has been business. He has no foreign experience.

Michael R. Pierce How can a man hide in France for seven years make a military decision

Farouk Al-Nasser Prinipiled, strategic thinker. Will get us out of Afghanistan while Romnmey won't.

Scott Carter Is simply to say I believe in diplomacy instead of War. Military action should be America's last resort Our children are dying in foreign countries and for what Nation building lets start by building our Nation

AmandaKay Schraufnagel Mazurkiewicz We right now have a draw down solution to removing our troops from Afghanistan. Our President has layed out a clear removal of troops and equipment from Afghanistan by 2014. I do not trust Mitt Romney to follow that plan. ...See MoreWe right now have a draw down solution to removing our troops from Afghanistan. Our President has layed out a clear removal of troops and equipment from Afghanistan by 2014. I do not trust Mitt Romney to follow that plan. The 54th Rule of Acquisition applies to strongly to the Republican Agenda "War is good for business" it is terrible for everything else but if all you want is to make money it does not matter who dies does it so long as it isn't you.

Jerry Ez GOP were to INCOMPETENT to know how to fight!

Mike Johnson Romney don't have a clue. He lost on every thing over sea's,

Patrick Joseph President Obama will never let his emotions supersede his intelligence.

Listiel Rock The man has a common sense approach to the situation in Afghanistan and for ending the war there.

Joe Borawski Leaving Afghanistan now would only recreate the problems in the region which led to the attacks our country faced 11 years ago. Without building a strong ally in the region we will simply be open to attack in another decade, ...See MoreLeaving Afghanistan now would only recreate the problems in the region which led to the attacks our country faced 11 years ago. Without building a strong ally in the region we will simply be open to attack in another decade, and I for one do not wish to see that occur.

Gary Bernier Actually I think we should get out sooner. But, realistically it will probably take another two years to draw down in a controlled manner. Romney is just embracing the old Bush idea of "we'll know it time when we see ...See MoreActually I think we should get out sooner. But, realistically it will probably take another two years to draw down in a controlled manner. Romney is just embracing the old Bush idea of "we'll know it time when we see it". Worse yet, Romney, like Bush, seem to keep wanting to defer to the generals. We have civilian leadership for a reason. The generals are expected to focus on winning a war. A President is expected to weigh a broader range of issues and some times know when to stop a war. Obama has shown that ability, Romney has not.

Eric OccupyChicago Roberts He is giving us an end strategy to get out of Afghanistan whereas Romney would keep us there. This needs to end. Too many of my brothers and sisters in arms have died or been permanently injured there. it is ...See MoreHe is giving us an end strategy to get out of Afghanistan whereas Romney would keep us there. This needs to end. Too many of my brothers and sisters in arms have died or been permanently injured there. it is time to come home.

Hilda Harris-Ransom He is best qualified to run the country

Patrick Ciriello We need to stop trying to be the police of the entire world, especially the middle east. That is a region that has been politically (and otherwise) unstable for 6000 years. We should let them fix their own problems.

Leon Portelance Obama has a plan. Romney has no clue and no experience.

Denise Oliver-Velez Barack Obama will get us out. Romney would like to start another war (or wars).

Martin Chiaravalloti It's an ugly situation to be sure. I trust Obama to get us out of there. Mitt? Not so much!

Celia Key Obama has a plan, don't know Romney's

Preston Hayes He is up on the issues and procedures to date. Romney has no clue.

Heather Houston If someone can tell me exactly what we are gaining from having 100,000 troops in that desert pit then by all means do so but we aren't gaining a bloody thing. Bring out troops home from Afghanistan. Bring them home ...See MoreIf someone can tell me exactly what we are gaining from having 100,000 troops in that desert pit then by all means do so but we aren't gaining a bloody thing. Bring out troops home from Afghanistan. Bring them home to their families and communities. Let that cesspool clean itself up.

Dee Hilton He has proven that he can handle the wars plus bring the troops home as planned.

Sam Lehman Obama ended Iraq war, albeit, a little late, but did his job safely. I trust he will do the same with Afghanistan.

Travis Glanz I don't agree with either candidate on Afghanistan...end the war now.

Abby Buchanan Simple, he ended the war in Iraq as promised. The killing of Osama bin Laden and many of al-Qaeda’s senior leadership. He has committed to the responsible ending of the war in Afghanistan and continues to bring our troops home ...See MoreSimple, he ended the war in Iraq as promised. The killing of Osama bin Laden and many of al-Qaeda’s senior leadership. He has committed to the responsible ending of the war in Afghanistan and continues to bring our troops home with the promise of continued support to them and their families.

Cedar Lay bring our boys home. safe and sound

Constance Lowery The other guy can't be trusted

Donna Gorman He's been relentless in the war on terror.

Mike Askme because the mission of getting Osama is over

Lynne Sanders Bielska The job would never be "done", today's wars are not like those in the past. Lines are as clear. End it, WE SPEND WAY TOO MUCH on wars we can't afford when that money should go to American schools and ...See MoreThe job would never be "done", today's wars are not like those in the past. Lines are as clear. End it, WE SPEND WAY TOO MUCH on wars we can't afford when that money should go to American schools and education system. Who's to say that the Afghanistan's won't change their loyalties in 5 years from now?

Peter D. Van Vorous End it. Peace time can also improve relations and economies.

Angel Lee I don't need to say anything here. It's all been said and it's being done.

Barbara Jones Hatcher It is the right thing to do. help people protect and change their own country.

Pramod Banavar No war

David Wright The president and his security advisers are more experienced in foreign policy than the G O P candidates

Jane Davis Mitt Romney knows nothing about foreign policy.

Yannick Luce Yambaka President Obama GETS THE JOB DONE!!!!!!!!

Constance King HE ENDED IRAQ, AND WILL END THE WAR IN AFGHANISTAN...THIS WILL BE THE END OF THE WARS THE REPUBLICANS STARTED, AND WILL HELP WITH USING MONEY FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS THAN FIGHTING UNNECESSARY WARS THAT SHOULDN'T HAVE STARTED...LOOKING FORWARD TO ...See MoreHE ENDED IRAQ, AND WILL END THE WAR IN AFGHANISTAN...THIS WILL BE THE END OF THE WARS THE REPUBLICANS STARTED, AND WILL HELP WITH USING MONEY FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS THAN FIGHTING UNNECESSARY WARS THAT SHOULDN'T HAVE STARTED...LOOKING FORWARD TO A WARLESS COUNTRY..

Karla Walker Because our President has been excellent at foreign policy!

Don Ivener Experience

Jason Safford Romney has no idea where Afghanistan is and he would ask Hermain Cain to find it for him. I'll stick with the Chief who eliminated Bin Laden from our minds.

Michaelle Michelle Marks The bolster in troops is always good before closing up shop. It avoids dragging this on and allows for a smoother transition to the Afghan security forces. Sometimes you have warmongers that will stay there forever if you let them.See MoreThe bolster in troops is always good before closing up shop. It avoids dragging this on and allows for a smoother transition to the Afghan security forces. Sometimes you have warmongers that will stay there forever if you let them.

Ja Lo Romney is clueless

Muthu Ganapathy I feel President Obama's policy on Afghanistan is the right approach to solve the problem and to gain Afghans people trust.

Joshua Schultz I here mitt talk about how bad it is and how necessary it is that we fight there, but I've heard no plan on how to fix it, or even an actual target. I believe he would just keep it ...See MoreI here mitt talk about how bad it is and how necessary it is that we fight there, but I've heard no plan on how to fix it, or even an actual target. I believe he would just keep it going indefinitely .

Dan McIntyre He knows what he is doing.

Shari Turner We have spent far too much time fighting with other countries. It is time to turn our attention to helping our own citizens. We have given them the tools to move forward and we can be here to help them ...See MoreWe have spent far too much time fighting with other countries. It is time to turn our attention to helping our own citizens. We have given them the tools to move forward and we can be here to help them out along the way if they need it, but it's time to bring our troops home to their families.

Anna Neaphyte We gave the Afghans all the tools with which to build up their democracy should they choose to do so. We will still be available to them on a civilian/business basis, but staying there militarily makes sense only if you ...See MoreWe gave the Afghans all the tools with which to build up their democracy should they choose to do so. We will still be available to them on a civilian/business basis, but staying there militarily makes sense only if you have asked for an extra $2 Trillion for military spending without an actual plan for what the money will be used for, which is the Republican plan. We need this money to .. ahem... create more jobs at home. Period.

Jay Staxx Sr. The US should withdraw all combat units and immediately cease all operations IN Afghanistan. However, we should maintain a strategic operating forward AFB to patrol the skies of this country until they can build their own Air Force. This would ...See MoreThe US should withdraw all combat units and immediately cease all operations IN Afghanistan. However, we should maintain a strategic operating forward AFB to patrol the skies of this country until they can build their own Air Force. This would be crucial in dealing with issues such as Iran invading Iraqi airspace to deliver supplies to an oppressive Syrian regime.

Ruhy Bremen Bring our troops back, he is a wise leader,

Robert Merle Dane Romney is putting the decision on when to withdraw in the hands of the commanders. It's an avoiding of responsibility. President Obama is behaving like the Commander in Chief and actually making a decision.

C David Crandall Because he has demonstrated caution when it comes to decisions that could place our troops in harms way.

Jeff Bunting Obama has been a success, a lot more so than what the media was predicting. Unfortunately there has been a high cost as of now. We need to leave and Obama's plan to leave in 2014 is a realistic goal ...See MoreObama has been a success, a lot more so than what the media was predicting. Unfortunately there has been a high cost as of now. We need to leave and Obama's plan to leave in 2014 is a realistic goal although it still seems painfully slow.

Sage Keramet Bellamy He was the one who issued the attack to kill Bin Laden and that was in the 1st 4 years of his term... Anyone thinking that his opponent is better is a Mormon oh I'm sorry... MORON! The last thing ...See MoreHe was the one who issued the attack to kill Bin Laden and that was in the 1st 4 years of his term... Anyone thinking that his opponent is better is a Mormon oh I'm sorry... MORON! The last thing we need is another republican in office to make us go backwards, it astonishes me on how many stupid people there are in the world but I am happy we finally have someone smart in office!

Jan Strain REBUILD what we destroyed and leave the country BETTER than we made it by our slash and burn Imperialism is my answer but far be it from me to have a clue about humanity, having been ome for 58 years ...See More REBUILD what we destroyed and leave the country BETTER than we made it by our slash and burn Imperialism is my answer but far be it from me to have a clue about humanity, having been ome for 58 years and involved with the needs of people..... Of the 2, Obama is less belligerent though not my idea of the best policy- Obama and Romney both have major issues with their approaches bu I can live with Obama's attempts more than I can live with Romney's ignorance and galumphing in like a rutting old Bull trying to prove his manhood

Mamie-Louise Anderson We've got to get out of there! Romney wants to commit any one's sons to war but his own. We must curb defense spending for the sake of nation-building at home.

Dorothy Tate He's proven his ability to handle foreign matters

Sara Jones I prefer not to say

Jane Bloom President Obama will get the troops home on schedule.

Herb Lesser he has set a time line to withdraw. He ended Iraq as planned and will end this one.

Merrily B. Babcock He's more trustworthy to attempt to do what he says.

Truscha Quatrone The war in Afghanistan is longer than war the United States has been involved with. It is time to give the Afghan people the right to govern their country.

Willie Royal Obama is the only man for the job. He need another term to finish the job.

Dawana Lee I wish it was over like now. I support Obama fully. He got the troops out of iraq and I have no question he would do the same in afghanistan.

Darlene Williams The war in Afghanistan went on for 10 years. All those lives placed in jeopardy and some did not make it. He had the courage to say enough is enough and dealt a blow to the enemy in his first ...See MoreThe war in Afghanistan went on for 10 years. All those lives placed in jeopardy and some did not make it. He had the courage to say enough is enough and dealt a blow to the enemy in his first term.

Tommy Rabid Obama want's the international community to help foot the bill on this war, and he wants the Afghan forces to take over and police their own country. It's that simple. He also recognizes that we are unable to keep fighting ...See MoreObama want's the international community to help foot the bill on this war, and he wants the Afghan forces to take over and police their own country. It's that simple. He also recognizes that we are unable to keep fighting indefinitely while our economy struggles, and our debt increases: Something the GOP seems to be forgetting...

Patty Corbett We should be able to end the war in Afghanistan. And we should be able to ask the international community for help in supporting Afghanistan, so that we may pull out. Our men have been overseas for so long, they ...See MoreWe should be able to end the war in Afghanistan. And we should be able to ask the international community for help in supporting Afghanistan, so that we may pull out. Our men have been overseas for so long, they are weary, and severely depressed by the time they come home. Some beyond help. Why is it only our responsibility? Why does the international community only look to us? Granted we can help, but so can others. It shouldn't fall only on us. We are seeing the results of it falling only on us, now as our men are coming home.

Marlene Langkilde Tuitele Obama would end the war in Afghanistan a lot sooner than chickenhawk, hide in France, Romney would.

Dev Sta 2013 ... we;re outta there

Pothr Hamlin We must get them out, but where I differ from Obama is this, we just went in, we can just get out. No timeline, bring them all home now. Our presence over there is not enhancing our national security, and ...See MoreWe must get them out, but where I differ from Obama is this, we just went in, we can just get out. No timeline, bring them all home now. Our presence over there is not enhancing our national security, and we have nothing we can do for them further.

Juan Israel If you were listening to the RNC last night you clearly understood their message. That message was not one of peace but one of provocation.

Justina Onwukwe Because, if Afghans are trained to spearhead their problems, they will be serious but if American troops stay there to spoon feed them, they will not exercise that independence. Another reason is because they understand their culture and way of ...See MoreBecause, if Afghans are trained to spearhead their problems, they will be serious but if American troops stay there to spoon feed them, they will not exercise that independence. Another reason is because they understand their culture and way of life. Finally, it will save a huge chunk of money for us and that money should be invested to take care of internal issues rather than spending it on the war that is siphoning the economy. So, Obama's plan makes sense to me

Ray Barnes Great Job By Obama !!!!!! DumASS romeny would go to Iran, ENOUGH !

Wakie Drizz cuz mitt romneys an idiot

Reba Dubay Too many to list.

Stephen Schneider There will NEVER be an end or "til the job is DONE". Every nation in history that has tried has failed. We do not need to waste more billions when our needs at home are so great.

Deborah Allen He' has done a fine job so far.

Fernando Salazar The US job in Afghanistan is done and we should just offer help to maintain stability, but the Afghanistan government should take more responsibility over their country. We can help like helping another friendly nation, but we need to leave ...See MoreThe US job in Afghanistan is done and we should just offer help to maintain stability, but the Afghanistan government should take more responsibility over their country. We can help like helping another friendly nation, but we need to leave them to govern themselves.

Melody Goad Willard does not have a clue when it comes to foreign policy, President Obama has chartered a course to end the War.

Aruna Mehta I trust him more

Jason Varner While I disagree with a delayed withdraw, at least President Obama utilizes the term. The needless wars must stop! Trillions of tax payers dollars are being wasted by our Government to propel their their imperialist agenda.

Dan Hess The US presence in Afghanistan isn't increasing national security OR benefiting the Afghani people. It's destroying our economy. Time to get out.

Ben Hill We shouldn't be there anymore it's byebye time.

Louie Pittarelli His actions are solution-based, whereas Romney only expresses dissatisfaction with Obama's methods. Romney doesn't even have an opinion, he just wants to listen to the generals and let them decide. Some president.

Riker Kasamoto I don't agree with Obama in everything, but I agree with him here.

He understands that our troups need to come home but to just up and lave makes no sense. We must all look at the bigger worldwide picture. We wanted to be this big superpower and with that designation come worldwide ...See MoreHe understands that our troups need to come home but to just up and lave makes no sense. We must all look at the bigger worldwide picture. We wanted to be this big superpower and with that designation come worldwide responsibility. President Obama gets this.

Hazem Abdalla I agree with President Obama's timetable of withdrawal from Afghanistan. It is about time for the Afghans to take control of their destiny. We need to do nation building for ourselves here in the USA.

Collegiate African American He is not afraid to call Karzai on the carpet.

Chynna Rolland a America has been at war for at least a dozen years or more. Our troops have been deployed to fight in two wars. When will we reach a consensus that these countries must stand on their own ? Because ...See More a America has been at war for at least a dozen years or more. Our troops have been deployed to fight in two wars. When will we reach a consensus that these countries must stand on their own ? Because of the nature of the countries we are defending, we never know if they will eventually turn on us as we have seen Iraq begin to court and help Iran. Our troops need to come home. \e

Terrill Wolfe Because he tries to keep his word on what is going on in this joke of a country.

Pam Miner I just do.

Frank Robert Without going into detail....I just do

Spot Ify Too bad Democrats weren't in charge of Afghanistan from the start. There would have been less US casualties and we'd have gotten Bin Laden 10 years ago.

Srinadh Godavarthy This is a tough one to decide. I think Afghanistan is not easily fixable. It is a tough country to get the job done. Already we have lost so many innocent lives. If not for Iraq war we would have ...See MoreThis is a tough one to decide. I think Afghanistan is not easily fixable. It is a tough country to get the job done. Already we have lost so many innocent lives. If not for Iraq war we would have been in a better situation by now. I think we need to support Karzai government from outside.

D-Faried Ahmed Romney defered service many times when he was of miltary draft age. He has fie adult sons none of whom have walked within a mile of a recruiting station. Contrast this with VPOTUS Biden who has a son that's an ...See MoreRomney defered service many times when he was of miltary draft age. He has fie adult sons none of whom have walked within a mile of a recruiting station. Contrast this with VPOTUS Biden who has a son that's an active-duty Officer and Attorney General for Delaware, and POTUS who did not defer any service but was just a child during Vietnam. As an Infantryman I go where I'm told fully knowing the realities that face me. I trust in this President's leadership on war matters more than I do a person who avoids war service and instills in his children the same values but would quickly and without the due process of thoughtful analysis required, open up yet another front with Iran (which he has said he would) without exhausting all diplomatic avenues.

Dc Pinkard He is not blinded by a false sense of American Exceptionalism or religious doctrines of divine charter or determinism.

Anthony Thomas I will never vote for Barack Obama in a million years...but you know what? I am tired of nation building. It is apparent to me that the US is not truly interested in fighting this war to win it. I ...See MoreI will never vote for Barack Obama in a million years...but you know what? I am tired of nation building. It is apparent to me that the US is not truly interested in fighting this war to win it. I would rather pick up and leave tomorrow than waste another hero's life on foreign soil over a cause we aren't truly committed to.

Mary Gannon Stolle I don't trust Romney on this issue. He has four or five sons, none of which has volunteered to fight for our country.

Chris Muench Test

Mark L. Whitaker Counterterrorism successes; defeating al Qaida and Bin Laden.

Mark Gruszka He is drawing down as promised

Jasmine Jackson Romney wants to pull troops out of Afghanistan and at the same time, wants to keep them there until the commanders say otherwise. He just says stuff to make people like him. Fortunately, it's easy to see through his smoke ...See MoreRomney wants to pull troops out of Afghanistan and at the same time, wants to keep them there until the commanders say otherwise. He just says stuff to make people like him. Fortunately, it's easy to see through his smoke and mirrors.

George O'Donnell We need to get out immediately, Even 2014 is too far away. Too many unwarranted deaths of Americans. No more.

David Auger I believe that the troop surge was a mistake. Or, at least it was mishandled. Given the technological advantages that the United States has in delivering death to her targets, there is no need for a surge of that magnitude. ...See MoreI believe that the troop surge was a mistake. Or, at least it was mishandled. Given the technological advantages that the United States has in delivering death to her targets, there is no need for a surge of that magnitude. It is for that reason that I agree with the President in backpedaling, pulling out our armed forces from the country in order to allow the people of Afghanistan to defend themselves. However, as Romney makes note, the real question is whether or not the Afghan people are ready for that responsibility. Personally, I do not believe that it is our responsibility to wait for them to be prepared, especially at the cost of our flesh and blood.

Johnice Reid I feel that the President's negotiations and recommendations to the Afganistan leaders has convinced them not to rely upon the United States for an indefinate period. I am sure that they want the troops to leav as much as we ...See MoreI feel that the President's negotiations and recommendations to the Afganistan leaders has convinced them not to rely upon the United States for an indefinate period. I am sure that they want the troops to leav as much as we want them back home.

Doug Tise Bring everyone home now. Screw those people. They don't want our help, let them make their opium and give up already, eventually someone like the uzbeks, Tajiks, or Krygs, will put them in their place.

Sydna Taylor Let people decide what they want to do in their country. When we figure out what we want and solve our problems we can offer advice. Until then we should stay home and work on our problems.

Madelyn Bryson I think we should leave Afghanistan. Unfortunately, we have done what so many other nations have done, try to change a culture thousands of years old at the expense of the needs of America. I do not agree with Obama ...See MoreI think we should leave Afghanistan. Unfortunately, we have done what so many other nations have done, try to change a culture thousands of years old at the expense of the needs of America. I do not agree with Obama on this issue

John Devin Price Do not like MITT

Will Caligiuri Time to get our boys home

Bob Wilkes remove forces now.

Veronica Leary The job will never be done if we continue to wage wars. The people of America want wars to end and the attention to return to domestic issues, such as the economy.

Jay Adams-Feuer I don't believe we can accomplish anything more there. We can't be every failed state's mother. I believe we have to have on-the ground intelligence in Af-Pak.

Hanns Barker The president is obviously more on top of things than Romney. Obama also has a better record negotiating with our opponent's, something that the GOP doesn't fully understand! Internationally, we are more liked and trusted than under Bush. Obama can ...See MoreThe president is obviously more on top of things than Romney. Obama also has a better record negotiating with our opponent's, something that the GOP doesn't fully understand! Internationally, we are more liked and trusted than under Bush. Obama can be trusted on his word. After all, we did get out of Iraq, just like he said he would!

Solja Itstrue President Obama has a lock on foreign policy issues for the last 20 years. Republicans love war to fill the pockets of their warmongering war contractors. The President was against the war in Iraq and brought our combat troops home. ...See MorePresident Obama has a lock on foreign policy issues for the last 20 years. Republicans love war to fill the pockets of their warmongering war contractors. The President was against the war in Iraq and brought our combat troops home. He is now trying to end the war in Afghanistan responsibly. The President of the United States is the Commander-in-Chief. He tells the U.S. military what to do, not the other way around. Romney would be told by the military when to leave, which is never. The majority of the American tax dollars go to our military, and they are too damn big and in too damn many places around the globe. Romney would take us into a war with Iran in his first year of office. After all, what proof do we have of him having any kind of foreign diplomacy? He went overseas and insulting every country. We need to make friends overseas, not more enemies.

Paul Klutes We're never going to "fix" Afghanistan, and our long term presence there is actually detrimental to our national interests.

Dennis Gates we did what we came to do, KILLED Ben Laden

Ellen Louise We need to stop spending so much money and human lives overseas. We can't completely pull out altogether but need to continue working toward an end.

Berry Lee Because we are spending too much and having casualties!

Cherie Ernest This was a tough problem handed off to him by the reckless prior administration. He has used military advice in his calculations and considered endless issues. It took genuine courage to order the strike which eliminated Bin Laden. Putting Pakistan ...See MoreThis was a tough problem handed off to him by the reckless prior administration. He has used military advice in his calculations and considered endless issues. It took genuine courage to order the strike which eliminated Bin Laden. Putting Pakistan on notice and revealing their perfidy were more significant than most realize. I'm glad he has a plan for easing out of a situation that is almost beyond solution.

Ruth Fish I feel Pres.Obama has done a great job handling a war that was handed to him when he took office, ESP.killing Osama Binladen.

Alan Ireland We need to stop being the caretakers of the world, we can't afford it!

Scott Kidd He's getting it done.

Brian Lehto We got Bin laden time for the Afghanis to take over!

Shaun Dakin Get out now.

Vijay Ravindran Trying out the Post's new Issue Engine feature. Check it out. Oh, and given that Romney really doesn't have a defined foreign policy, I'm endorsing Obama on this one:)

Joey Kalmin Many Republicans agree with Obama's plan for withdrawal from Afghanistan. After that horrific attack on innocent Afghan civilians by a member of the military, it is obvious that it is now time to steadily and safely withdraw our troops from ...See MoreMany Republicans agree with Obama's plan for withdrawal from Afghanistan. After that horrific attack on innocent Afghan civilians by a member of the military, it is obvious that it is now time to steadily and safely withdraw our troops from the country.

Obama's Statements (9)

January 29, 2010

Remarks by the President at GOP House Issues Conference

And I think your constituents would want to know that despite the fact it doesn't get a lot of attention, you and I have actually worked together on a number of occasions. There have been times where we've acted in a bipartisan fashion. And I want to thank you and your Democratic colleagues for reaching across the aisle. There has been, for example, broad support for putting in the troops necessary in Afghanistan to deny al Qaeda safe haven, to break the Taliban's momentum, and to train Afghan security forces. There's been broad support for disrupting, dismantling, and defeating al Qaeda. And I know that we're all united in our admiration of our troops.

Request a Fact Check

March 28, 2010

Remarks by the President to the Troops

Our broad mission is clear: We are going to disrupt and dismantle, defeat and destroy al Qaeda and its extremist allies. That is our mission. And to accomplish that goal, our objectives here in Afghanistan are also clear: We’re going to deny al Qaeda safe haven. We’re going to reverse the Taliban’s momentum. We’re going to strengthen the capacity of Afghan security forces and the Afghan government so that they can begin taking responsibility and gain confidence of the Afghan people.

Request a Fact Check

May 22, 2010

Remarks by the President at United States Military Academy at West Point Commencement

So this war has changed over the last nine years, but it’s no less important than it was in those days after 9/11. We toppled the Taliban regime -- now we must break the momentum of a Taliban insurgency and train Afghan security forces. We have supported the election of a sovereign government -- now we must strengthen its capacities. We’ve brought hope to the Afghan people -- now we must see that their country does not fall prey to our common enemies. Cadets, there will be difficult days ahead. We will adapt, we will persist, and I have no doubt that together with our Afghan and international partners, we will succeed in Afghanistan.

Request a Fact Check

July 20, 2010

Remarks by President Obama and Prime Minister Cameron of the United Kingdom in Joint Press Availability

Today’s historic Kabul Conference is another major step forward. The Afghan government presented —- and its international partners unanimously endorsed —- concrete plans to implement President Karzai’s commitments to improve security, economic growth, governance, and the delivery of basic services. The Afghan government presented its peace and reconciliation plan —- which the United States firmly supports. Agreement was reached on a plan in which responsibility for security in Afghan provinces will transition to Afghan security forces. In addition, Afghanistan and Pakistan reached a historic agreement to increase economic opportunity for people on both sides of the border.

Request a Fact Check

January 25, 2011

Remarks by the President in State of Union Address

We’ve also taken the fight to al Qaeda and their allies abroad. In Afghanistan, our troops have taken Taliban strongholds and trained Afghan security forces. Our purpose is clear: By preventing the Taliban from reestablishing a stranglehold over the Afghan people, we will deny al Qaeda the safe haven that served as a launching pad for 9/11.

Request a Fact Check

May 25, 2011

Remarks by the President to Parliament in London, United Kingdom

Together, let us pay tribute to all of our men and women who have served and sacrificed over the last several years -– for they are part of an unbroken line of heroes who have borne the heaviest burden for the freedoms that we enjoy. Because of them, we have broken the Taliban’s momentum. Because of them, we have built the capacity of Afghan security forces. And because of them, we are now preparing to turn a corner in Afghanistan by transitioning to Afghan lead. And during this transition, we will pursue a lasting peace with those who break free of al Qaeda and respect the Afghan constitution and lay down arms. And we will ensure that Afghanistan is never a safe haven for terror, but is instead a country that is strong, sovereign, and able to stand on its own two feet.

Request a Fact Check

May 21, 2012

Remarks by the President at ISAF Meeting on Afghanistan

9:24 A.M. CDT Well, good morning, everyone. And for those who are joining us for the first time, welcome to Chicago. I was just hearing from a few folks who are not NATO members that they had fun on the town last night. Hopefully, no stories in the press. We come together as 50 nations -- NATO allies and partners -- that make up the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan. I want to welcome the presence of President Karzai, as well as officials from central Asia and Russia -- nations that have an important perspective and that continue to provide critical transit for ISAF supplies. The presence of so many leaders and nations illustrates once again that this is a truly international mission, and that’s because the region and the world have a profound interest in an Afghanistan that is stable, that is secure, and that is not a source of attacks on other nations. And today, as always, our thoughts are with our brave forces who are serving in this vital mission. Two years ago, in Lisbon, our nations agreed on a framework for transition in Afghanistan that would allow us to responsibly wind down the war. We agreed that this transition to Afghan lead for security would begin in 2011 and that it would conclude in 2014. At the same time, we said that we would seek a long-term partnership with Afghanistan and the Afghan people. Over the past two years, we’ve made important progress. Our forces broke the Taliban’s momentum. More Afghans are reclaiming their communities. Afghan security forces have grown stronger. And the transition that we agreed to in Lisbon is well underway. This past week we saw more progress. We very much welcomed President Karzai’s announcement to the third group of areas to begin transition. This means that 75 percent of the Afghan people live in areas where Afghan forces will be moving into the lead. Today, we’ll decide the next phase of the transition -- the next milestone. We’ll set a goal for Afghan forces to take the lead for combat operations across the country in 2013 -- next year -- so that ISAF can move to a supporting role. This will be another step toward Afghans taking full lead for their security as agreed to by 2014 when the ISAF combat mission will end. Today is also an opportunity to ensure our hard-won progress is preserved. The Strategic Partnership Agreement that President Karzai and I signed in Kabul ensures that as Afghans stand up they will not stand alone. Today, we can agree on NATO’s long-term relationship with Afghanistan beyond 2014, including our support of Afghan security forces. So we have a lot of work to do. Again, I want to thank all of my fellow leaders and our partners for being here. Our nations and the world have a vital interest in the success of this mission. And I am confident, because of the leadership represented here as well as the leadership of our outstanding armed forces, that we can advance that goal today and responsibly bring this war to an end.

Request a Fact Check

May 21, 2012

Remarks by the President at ISAF Meeting on Afghanistan

Today is also an opportunity to ensure our hard-won progress is preserved. The Strategic Partnership Agreement that President Karzai and I signed in Kabul ensures that as Afghans stand up they will not stand alone. Today, we can agree on NATO’s long-term relationship with Afghanistan beyond 2014, including our support of Afghan security forces.

Request a Fact Check

May 21, 2012

Remarks by the President at NATO Press Conference

Second, we’re now unified behind a plan to responsibly wind down the war in Afghanistan, a plan that trains Afghan security forces, transitions to the Afghans and builds a partnership that can endure after our combat mission in Afghanistan ends. Since last year, we’ve been transitioning parts of Afghanistan to the Afghan National Security Forces and that has enabled our troops to start coming home. Indeed, we’re in the process of drawing down 33,000 U.S. troops by the end of this summer.

Request a Fact Check

Issue Position |

Romney has said U.S. forces should remain in Afghanistan until American military commanders say the job is done. He has criticized President Obama’s timeline for withdrawing troops from Afghanistan, accusing the commander-in-chief of ignoring advice from his generals, many of whom said the United States should begin its departure after the fighting season of 2012.

The former governor said in 2009 that the United States should "nurture democracy and human rights all over the world." He said during at foreign-policy debate in November that the United States should draw the Afghans toward modernity, and that “we don't want to literally pull up stakes and run out of town after the extraordinary investment that we've made.”

But Romney contradicted himself during other debates, saying the country should not “go off and try to fight a war of independence for another nation.” He has said the time has come for Afghan troops to earn and maintain their own freedom, but he insists that the president made a political decision to withdraw earlier than many ground commanders advised.

Endorse

Romney on Afghanistan

120 Comments

Reader Endorsements

Mike Murillo We have shown extreme weakness during the last 4 years militarily. Foreign policy is soft. I don't want to see any more attacks on our soil. Afghanistan is one of many places we need to be in order to make ...See MoreWe have shown extreme weakness during the last 4 years militarily. Foreign policy is soft. I don't want to see any more attacks on our soil. Afghanistan is one of many places we need to be in order to make sure we are secure here. We need a leader that is tougher on terror and will stand up to thugs that are calling themselves world leaders.

Joey Kircher Because Obama is a liar and a snake.

Limitless Oppression Perhaps he can do better than this current befuddled fool when it comes to being commander in chief

Barry Chase Leaving before we have completed the mission was a political move, and definitely not the right thing to do.

Alex Jastin Vang Seeing as how the President isn't spending 6 months to a year over there, he should trust the word of the generals and troops on the ground, they know the situation better than any person in the US would. We ...See MoreSeeing as how the President isn't spending 6 months to a year over there, he should trust the word of the generals and troops on the ground, they know the situation better than any person in the US would. We said Iraq was ready, but it now has a higher presence of AlQaeda and Iranians.

Tom Andrus Common Sense

Sally Fanta Mitt will respect our Military leaders and listen to their advice. Obama has already proven he has no ability to act as Commander in Chief and has lost the respect of our military women and men!

Byron Johnson obama is giving the terrorist a timeline for them to start their campaign of terror all over again.plus he is a muslim himself.

Jim Lewin It is a losing strategy to announce in advance when you are leaving, unless you are giving up. Even then you just leave immediately and don't lose any more American lives. Fight to win or leave- remember Viet Nam?

Obama hates the Military

Rd Floyd I think Obama is out of touch and is more of a celebrity than a President.

Swordmaiden Truthseeker He won't abandon our Heroes

Robert Hightower Jr nuke them

Takahiro Hiroi Telling your enemy when you are going to retreat sounds stupid. Everything will depend on the situation there then, and our objectives.

Steven Sandra Wright Romney really does value the allegiance with Israel, and whether people recognize it or not, allegiance with Israel is the centerpiece to our foreign policy.

Devorah Nuneya I agree.

Rusty Covey Obama believes in a Utopia, a world of love and peace which is something I believes is covering up an underlying agenda, he will only talk about once certain things are in place. I want a president who doesn't conduct ...See MoreObama believes in a Utopia, a world of love and peace which is something I believes is covering up an underlying agenda, he will only talk about once certain things are in place. I want a president who doesn't conduct work under the table, like Obama did in Russia.

Beverly K. Spencer Obama has lied so many times on so many issues, he needs to be fired

Leon Elledge GET OUT WITH HONOR.

George Mikaelodis seems more serious and cares more

Wayne Grimsley I think Romney will have a better sense of international relations than Obama. Obama had no experience in this area when he first took office. His motives are political in nature to me.

WE AT THE BOOK OF GARY BELIEVE THAT WE NEED TO MAINTAIN A PRESENCE IN AFGHANISTAN DURING THIS TUMULTUOUS PERIOD OF TIME.

Rhonda Irizarry He is the more versed and knowledgeable man for the job. Seeing Obama's foreign policy blunders doesn't give me confidence, He also doesn't commit to the daily briefings.. I think that is part of the job and the man just ...See MoreHe is the more versed and knowledgeable man for the job. Seeing Obama's foreign policy blunders doesn't give me confidence, He also doesn't commit to the daily briefings.. I think that is part of the job and the man just seems over his head. Mitt Romney is ready and more skilled.

William Lee He sees that we are up against the 13c enemy of the West!

Dee Pippins Obama talk out of the side of his mouth. I for one want to see the issues there to be solved not shoved under the rug and yes our soldier to come on back home. I want to see home ...See MoreObama talk out of the side of his mouth. I for one want to see the issues there to be solved not shoved under the rug and yes our soldier to come on back home. I want to see home land security do a better job of protecting our own and that will mean Clintin being replaced. I do not believe Obama will do any of these things thank you

Robert Whittle No more blaming terrorist attacks on youtube videos!

Paula Wilee Marshall Obama isn't trust worthy. I feel bad for our Soldiers who he would stab in the back if it meant re election

Irma Torres We need a president that will defend our country in every way. protecting us from our enemies but most importantly standing up for what our country was founded on...FAITH AND TRUST AND BELIEF IN GOD AND THE BIBLE. IN THIS ...See MoreWe need a president that will defend our country in every way. protecting us from our enemies but most importantly standing up for what our country was founded on...FAITH AND TRUST AND BELIEF IN GOD AND THE BIBLE. IN THIS I FEEL STRONGLY THAT ROMNEY IS THE BEST CONDIDATE FOR AMERICA! Romney Loves America & the People... LOVE GOES A LONG WAY & LOVE FOR GOD & AMERICA REPRESENTS MANY GOOD QUALITIES IN A PRESIDENT... THAT'S ROMNEY <3<3<3

Cindy Rader we need a president that will defend our country in every way. protecting us from our enemies but most importantly standing up for what our country was founded on...FAITH AND TRUST AND BELIEF IN GOD AND THE BIBLE. IN THE ...See Morewe need a president that will defend our country in every way. protecting us from our enemies but most importantly standing up for what our country was founded on...FAITH AND TRUST AND BELIEF IN GOD AND THE BIBLE. IN THE BIBLE GOD GAVE 10 COMMANDENTS, FOLLOW THEM AND OUR COUNTRY CAN AND WILL BE PROTECTED. ROMNEY IS NOT AFRAID TO LET THE US AND OTHER COUNTRIES KNOW WERE HE STANDS.

Viviana Nicholson We can't afford to let others be denied freedom when we have fought so hard in this country to gain it for ourselves.

Anthony Zarrella We need to get back to a mindset where the US *wins* wars. We don't just stay until we can withdraw without losing face - we win, outright, and make sure we're not just leaving another opportunity for extremists to ...See MoreWe need to get back to a mindset where the US *wins* wars. We don't just stay until we can withdraw without losing face - we win, outright, and make sure we're not just leaving another opportunity for extremists to destabilize the region.

Maritza Harrell-Jacques We need to get out of there!!! they are not worth losing our lives!!

Anne Scheel-DeCoste out president lies

Securities Finance You cannot telegraph our intentions. Obama did. The Taliban have been emboldened.

Securities Finance A president who believes that apologizing to enemies and surrendering by telegraphing departure dates is not the man I want leading our nation through the end of the Afghan war. Mitt Romney is none of the above, and I can ...See MoreA president who believes that apologizing to enemies and surrendering by telegraphing departure dates is not the man I want leading our nation through the end of the Afghan war. Mitt Romney is none of the above, and I can trust him and Paul Ryan to do the right thing.

Elizabeth Duncan

Thomas Daniel because i believe he will not tell her our troops not to shoot back like obama does if they see a guy about to shoot at them just because hes in civilian clothes

Ric Allen Training and support is getting our own troops killed. Romney is correct in letting the commanders make the choice, so when we are done it is over.

Jake Mihalak While I don't support an open ended commitment, I do believe that withdrawing from Afghanistan now is premature

Linda Fugger Rice I BELIEVE ONCE HE IS FACTORED IN HE WILL MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION, WHY ARE WE EVEN THERE, MORE HAVE DIED UNDER OBAMA THAN BUSH. HE IS A TERRIBLE PRESIDENT.

Kallie Smirnov "This was inherited" the worst excuse I've EVER heard...if a job was started, then it NEEDS to be completed, period. pulling troops too early shows the rest of the world a sign of appeasement. He has no idea where to ...See More"This was inherited" the worst excuse I've EVER heard...if a job was started, then it NEEDS to be completed, period. pulling troops too early shows the rest of the world a sign of appeasement. He has no idea where to go from here, and it is becoming painfully apparent.

Lee Varner Obama has no idea what to do, left up to him people keep dying and he doesn't care. Romney will get the job done.

Alex Quirk NEVER should the Commander-in-Chief announce his time line to the world! Could this be the ONLY thing that President Barack is transparent about?

Securities Finance Telegraphing our intentions in Afghanistan to the Taliban enemy - which is poised to Afghanistan into the same incubator of terrorism that it was before we invaded, at a loss of all those American lives that went there to stop ...See MoreTelegraphing our intentions in Afghanistan to the Taliban enemy - which is poised to Afghanistan into the same incubator of terrorism that it was before we invaded, at a loss of all those American lives that went there to stop it from being so -- is a travesty of the highest order. It displayed Obama great incompetence and was absolutely incredible. I am certain Mitt Romney would have gotten this right. Let's home he becomes President-Elect Romney next November so that we can save the situation before it is too late.

Securities Finance Obama is surrendering our gains to the patient Taliban zealots who are now saying that they chased America out just like the chased the Russians out. Obama has allowed that to happen. His biggest, most foolish move was giving a ...See MoreObama is surrendering our gains to the patient Taliban zealots who are now saying that they chased America out just like the chased the Russians out. Obama has allowed that to happen. His biggest, most foolish move was giving a set date for pullout. Even if he did plan to pull out on that date, telegraphing it to our enemies was the singularly most stupid thing he could have done, yet he did it. The result is going to be a gradual retaking of Afghanistan by the Taliban, and a return to this country being an incubator for terrorism. After all that blood and treasure spend -- and the blame here will fall squarely, directly on one man: Barack Obama. I am very certain that Mitt Romney would have handled this in a far better way. Romney 100%.

Greg Davidson Though not a strong endorsement, I still want to know how Mitt will enccourage our 'Allies' to also share in this responsibility. The US can no longer afford to be the main military police enforcer of the world

Dewayne C Presson Finish the job or get totally out now!!

David J Vinish Obama has no military training, yet he seems to know better than the military minds that are leading the military. For a sitting lame president to make wild moves without the consent of the military sounds like a socialist takeover ...See MoreObama has no military training, yet he seems to know better than the military minds that are leading the military. For a sitting lame president to make wild moves without the consent of the military sounds like a socialist takeover of the..........US.

Catherine Gleisner Laird I wish we could withdraw from Afghanistan, but I think the soldiers think we stillneed to be there. Obama is only trying to do this to win votes..he doesn't support our military.

Christopher Gourgouras In my opinion a timeline is not the answer, we need to finish what we started. A premature withdrawal will add to the instability in the region.

Shaun Brown WE NEED TO STAY AND WIN THE FIGHT

Baine Sumpin I will keep this shirt, most my comments have been deny for language that WaPo deem inappropriate - none were

Eric N. Coop Mr. Romney realizes that by giving a definite date of withdrawal, we are inviting our enemies to bring the fight to the Afghan people after we leave. Further, he realizes that our enemies consider our premature withdrawal as a sign ...See MoreMr. Romney realizes that by giving a definite date of withdrawal, we are inviting our enemies to bring the fight to the Afghan people after we leave. Further, he realizes that our enemies consider our premature withdrawal as a sign of weakness in view of what hasn't been done versus what has been done. Further, we need to take the fight to the enemy and let them know that continued attacks against the Afghan people will not be tolorated. We need to ensure the job in Afghanistan is finished and that won't be done until Al-Qaeda and the Taliban are expelled and weakened to the point of being no threat to anyone.

Celia Ann Godfrey Well, this is Obama's war...and they are shooting our men in the backs today. Romney could do better.

Charlene Williams I agree with him. I think we need a president with moral values as well as one not looking at our country from the perspective that President Obama does. I want a big dog on the front porch not a ...See MoreI agree with him. I think we need a president with moral values as well as one not looking at our country from the perspective that President Obama does. I want a big dog on the front porch not a lap dog protecting my rights as an American.

Bob Veteran We need a real leader that knows how to lead, not just talk of hope and change.

Dino Lizzi The whole world knows how weak and incompetent Obama is...

Morgandy Barnett Does Obama even know we're at war there? With the green on blue attacks going on and him partying with all the Hollywood elite's... Where's the leadership?

Nancy Neff- Skrzyniarz ALWAYS listen to the commanders IN charge of operations on the ground

Michael Staker The General Officers have military training, have spent time at War College, and should have some good ideas about what is needed. Our current administration has continued the war in Afghanistan, but has not resourced our troops appropriately. We should ...See MoreThe General Officers have military training, have spent time at War College, and should have some good ideas about what is needed. Our current administration has continued the war in Afghanistan, but has not resourced our troops appropriately. We should hesitate to go to war, and once we go, we should win. We need a strong military to do that. We cannot set a date to be out in the middle of the conflict--that is like a physician predicting the exact date a muscle or bone will heal, or the exact date a pancreatic cancer patient will die--we work to heal, and can estimate based on experience/research/science--we cannot set a precise date--instead should work to end the war with decisive victory. Romney appears to understand this truth.

Maureen Wilson Romney is right. What is happening now is a sure sign of it.

Pamela Martin Hoyt President Obama has done NOTHING but incite the Middle East by being SO WEAK. I believe in the Reagan model of "Peace through Strength". I believe Romney/Ryan will give us that. I feel that if Romney/Ryan were in office, something ...See MorePresident Obama has done NOTHING but incite the Middle East by being SO WEAK. I believe in the Reagan model of "Peace through Strength". I believe Romney/Ryan will give us that. I feel that if Romney/Ryan were in office, something would be done about our precious Soldiers being killed by those we are training. Obama will continue to weaken our military and NONE in that region will fear us as they should. Romney will protect our people and as important to me, he WILL cooperate with Israel as we have done for decades. Our job should be to not allow Al Queda and the Taliban to turn Afganistan back into a terror haven as Obama has done with Iraq which is not being controlled by Iran. As soon as we pull out of Afganistan, Iran will move in, AlQueda and the Taliban will take over and like Iraq, all the good work we have done there, especially for WOMEN....will be UNDONE. I heartely support: ROMNEY/RYAN!

Judy King Obama needs to go. He is nothing by a thug socialist gangster

Ron Berry Get the job done instead of portraying weakness.

Steve Green Romney wants to finish the job, Obama wants to arm the enemy so they can kill us easier, and then apologize to them when they attack us with our own weapons. OBAMA is a FRAUD & TRAITOR!

Damon Dees Obama is still a KNUCKLE HEAD !!!!!Cant belive anyone would vote for this guy again!!!!

Rachel Smith Hoffman Obama is making America look cowardly and apologizing while they laugh and kill our people. This last attack WAS WELL PLANNED FOR 9/11 and had little to do with a movie that came out quite some time ago. Obama is ...See MoreObama is making America look cowardly and apologizing while they laugh and kill our people. This last attack WAS WELL PLANNED FOR 9/11 and had little to do with a movie that came out quite some time ago. Obama is a joke and America is getting laughed at

William C. Fisher I believe Romney will leave Afghanistan sooner than Obama.

Judith Madhavi Goldman Obama is ignoring advice from his generals.

Adam Shankle Obama has no military experience yet does not listen to his generals, if he had we would more than likely have been out of Afghanistan already.

Glen Hilton Being former Military I would much rather have Mitt as Commander and Chief; as Obama wants to faze out the Military so he can pay for his Obama Care. Our troops deserve better and Mitt will make sure that our ...See MoreBeing former Military I would much rather have Mitt as Commander and Chief; as Obama wants to faze out the Military so he can pay for his Obama Care. Our troops deserve better and Mitt will make sure that our Military will be the best ever. Not only stronger but smarter and ready for any situation that may arise. He will not sit on his duff while Americans are being killed in foreign countries .

Jacob LaBarge Protect the US against terrorists! The biggest enemy for Mitt and Republicans are terrorists and enemies of our country. The biggest enemy in the Dems and president's opinion are conservatives and the Tea Party in the US. Isn't there something ...See MoreProtect the US against terrorists! The biggest enemy for Mitt and Republicans are terrorists and enemies of our country. The biggest enemy in the Dems and president's opinion are conservatives and the Tea Party in the US. Isn't there something wrong with that picture?

Daniel Danielson Mitt Romney is smarter than Obama

Fred Uppe He won't make his military decisions based on the next election not willhe telegraph his next move to the enemy.

Robert Cardenas My word give the man a chance ...... He can do soooooooooo munch better than OB

Cindy Fricke Obama has gotten more of our troops and allied troops killed in Afghanistan than President Bush. His rules of engagement are meant to 'even the playing field' so that our superior troops/firepower don't over-power the enemy. . . Really Barry? ...See MoreObama has gotten more of our troops and allied troops killed in Afghanistan than President Bush. His rules of engagement are meant to 'even the playing field' so that our superior troops/firepower don't over-power the enemy. . . Really Barry? It is called war for a reason. You play to win - and that is what we will do in November.

James Lowe Obama has gotten us nowhere in Afghanistan except more troops in and killed and a worsening political situation. This is largely because Obama foolishly announced an exit date so that the Taliban and others can be confident in their planning ...See MoreObama has gotten us nowhere in Afghanistan except more troops in and killed and a worsening political situation. This is largely because Obama foolishly announced an exit date so that the Taliban and others can be confident in their planning to take over the country. Obama has no plan whatsoever except to tread water. Romney has a plan and will not play into the hands of corrupt politicians and Islamic radicals.

Sharon Tomalavage Obama has followed the Bush plan from beginning to end, yet trashed it when he was running for the Presidency. How hypocritical.

This President has had 4 years and he's done NOTHING. We live in a world where we continually allow unsuccessful more opportunity to fail. REMEMBER 9/11 People!!! Clinton did nothing and people died.

Robert Forsberg Generals in the field and boots on the ground is where you need to get the lions share of your intel in war from. Not some desk in the White House

Jose Luis Perez apoyo a romney poque obama segun mi punto de vista no a tenido el suficiente caracter para tratar con el gobierno de afghanistan

Kirk Davis They have been fighting for hundred of years we will never change that culture. Withdrawal and used the money on Jobs. We are not nation Builder we are freedom builder. No mas No MAS.

Eric Brown Because if we are already there then we should finish the job at hand...going against the generals is a bad idea because they actually know the situation and the danger in Afghanistan...withdrawing troops would be COUNTER PRODUCTIVE!

Tracey Lindsay I beleieve that we were over there for a reason , and now I think its time for them to come home. ALL them. I think that every country should handle there own and leave American out we have anough ...See MoreI beleieve that we were over there for a reason , and now I think its time for them to come home. ALL them. I think that every country should handle there own and leave American out we have anough to handle here in the Us .

Sandi Cantrell Complete Leadership

Walt Keays Has the leadership needed to ensure we get out when the military leadership things it is the right time. He also has the common-sense NOT to telegraph the withdrawal timeline.

Larry Henry Leadership! Leadership!Leadership!

Brandon Parret He needs to be more firm on this issue. The people are ready for all troops to be home. However you should not let the enemies of America know the time table. Thats just not very military savy, and media ...See MoreHe needs to be more firm on this issue. The people are ready for all troops to be home. However you should not let the enemies of America know the time table. Thats just not very military savy, and media plays a huge part in this...

Ordinary Citizen Obama's ideas? Hahaha! Everything obama does comes from the orders of the United Nations/NWO. Obama is a miserable UN puppet, a traitor of the United states of America!

Bryce Olsen Doing things like announcing withdrawal dates is dangerous and risky. Romney would not do anything like that as President. He has my faith on this issue

Craig Fletcher I support Romney.... WE have started this, we need to finish it.... WE have not done that in a long time.....

Shela D Kelley-Sturgeon Leadership some thing we don't have in the White House right now...

Sandy Larson- Gonzales Leadership

Lewis Hemmerton I don't endorse either of these clowns. I endorse Gary Johnson.

Lisa Thomas McDonald He will patiently extract US forces as soon as we can, but NO announced timeline

Kathryn Kitty Reichman Atkins Cause Obama has no sense on anything to do with Foreign relations.

Christopher Mullaney I hope He'll change his mind and get us out of Afghanistan as soon as he'ss electe.

Jim Clavette I don't know what I said on abortion about Obama that was offensive but oh well.

Antoinette Colletti The Afghan people must be ready to defend and police themselves before we just walk off and say "Thanks and Good Luck!"

D-Faried Ahmed Romney defered service many times when he was of military draft age. He has five adult sons none of whom have walked within a mile of a recruiting station. Contrast this with VPOTUS Biden who has a son that's an ...See MoreRomney defered service many times when he was of military draft age. He has five adult sons none of whom have walked within a mile of a recruiting station. Contrast this with VPOTUS Biden who has a son that's an active-duty Officer and Attorney General for Delaware, and POTUS who did not defer any service but was just a child during Vietnam. As an Infantryman I go where I'm told fully knowing the realities that face me. I trust in this President's leadership on war matters more than I do a person who avoids war service and instills in his children the same values but would quickly and without the due process of thoughtful analysis required, open up yet another front with Iran (which he has said he would) without exhausting all diplomatic avenues.

Joanne LcOriginals I don't like Romney but you know what? He's not a socialist. Enough said.

Jane Walker Obama has not demonstrated international leadership over the past four years. I feel he is not "connected" to the real issues and the real solutions necessary to be a world leader.

Elaine Obrzut Coyle I heard Obama say that he had agreed to have 20% of our troops stay in Afghanistan until 2024 & we would continue supporting the Afghan Gov. Now that would be about 18,000 troops Where is that data?

Liesl Roeder Tell people when we are leaving so they can build their forces and wait us out....that's smart...NOT! Take control, finish the job, teach and empower the people, then leave.

Rebecca Perry Williamson Tell people when we are leaving so they can build their forces and wait us out....that's smart...NOT! Take control, finish the job, teach and empower the people, then leave.

Nick Thompson They only understand strength

Bryan K. Macklowe I agree that the job is only done when we've acheived our objectives. I agree with Romney that strict timetables are foolish in matters of military importance.

Michael Gardner Re-electing Oblamer would be like the Titanic backing up and ramming the iceberg again!

Sheri Bowyer Stephenson Romney knows that only the military commanders know when the time is right to leave an area, not a calendar.

Just Brilliant A timeline will allow for the insurgents to wait till the US leaves.

Caro Verdugo Because he has a better understanding about foreign policy and knows how do deal with these issues.

James Bruce The milatary generals no more about the war than Obama does

Jon Mackie I say we destroy every popie field in the country and leave. It make no sense to leave and let them keep the money source there.

Edward Gordon Mitt is right, we should stay in until the government of Afghanistan is able to secure and protect itself.

Russell Cook Politicians should not dictate military strategy. The issue should be "Is the mission complete or not" I believe that is a decision for the military. If it is complete then we should withdraw.

Romney's Statements (8)

October 7, 2011

Mitt Romney Delivers Remarks On U.S. Foreign Policy

Every great university and college produces future engineers, doctors, lawyers and entrepreneurs. Here at the Citadel, you do all that but you have another specialty - you produce heroes. Over 1400 of your alumni have served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere fighting the war against terrorism. And sixteen have paid the ultimate price.

Request a Fact Check

October 7, 2011

Mitt Romney Delivers Remarks On U.S. Foreign Policy

In Afghanistan, after the United States and NATO have withdrawn all forces, will the Taliban find a path back to power? After over a decade of American sacrifice in treasure and blood, will the country sink back into the medieval terrors of fundamentalist rule and the mullahs again open a sanctuary for terrorists?

Request a Fact Check

March 6, 2012

Mitt Romney Delivers Remarks To Aipac Policy Conference

Iran has long engaged in terrorism around the world, most recently in Georgia and in Thailand. In Washington, DC, Iran plotted to assassinate the Saudi ambassador by bombing a Georgetown restaurant. Iran has deployed Hezbollah and Hamas and armed the insurgents of Iraq and Afghanistan, killing our sons and daughters. They war against America.

Request a Fact Check

March 6, 2012

Mitt Romney Delivers Remarks On Super Tuesday

I’ve met parents like David McArthur, whose children have served and suffered for their country in war. David’s son was seriously injured in Afghanistan. He returned from the front lines only to face a new fight to get the medical care he needs – and he has surely earned. As I told David, I believe that to those who put everything on the line, we owe everything they need.

Request a Fact Check

March 9, 2012

Mitt Romney: Obama Movie Producer Should Talk To The Millions Of Unemployed Americans

I got off a phone call on the way here. I guess there’s a new, there’s a new infomercial out. The President’s people have put together a seventeen-minute infomercial. They’re calling it a documentary, I don’t think so, it’s an infomercial. And the person who produced it, he said ‘boy, it was really hard putting this together.’ He was interviewed last night. He said ‘because I couldn’t find any faults with the president. I could find nothing… I could find nothing he’d done wrong, so how could I put together a film, you know, because it showed only one side, a positive side.’ Well I have some suggestions for the President and for the producer. First of all, talk to the 24 million Americans that are out of work or underemployed in this country. And, by the way, you could talk to some of the young ones like those two in that second row there, that got hit with $15.5 trillion of debt. This president has put in place almost as much public debt as all the prior presidents combined. Talk to them. And then how about our soldiers coming home that can’t find work. You could talk to them as well. And how about the folks that are having a hard time filling up their car because of the price of gasoline. It’s doubled under this president. He could also pick up the phone and talk to the folks that work in the Gulf. We were in Pascagoula yesterday. We saw behind us a couple of large drilling rigs not being used right now. The use of drilling rigs in the Gulf is lowest of any place in the world. Lowest utilization, that’s because of this president and the moratorium he put in place that’s illegal. Talk, by the way, to the people that are in the health care sector that don’t like Obamacare and want to get rid of it. Talk to the members in our military, our veterans, who are told that the payments they have to make for TriCare, their health care program, are going to go up under this president. Talk to the people who’ve been serving overseas that wonder why we’re not talking enough about the sacrifices that are being made by our families of our servicemen in Afghanistan. I’ll tell you, I’ve got a long list of people for that producer to talk to and I’ll tell you, if someone’s looking for things that the president has done wrong, it’s a long, long, long list. Don’t forget, by the way, that this president… How many months ago was it, 37 months ago, told us that if he could borrow $787 billion, almost a trillion dollars, he would keep unemployment below 8 percent. It has not been below 8 percent since. This president has not succeeded, this president has failed and that’s the reason we’re going to get rid of him in 2012. Now I don’t mean to be getting you to your feet like that. You can be excited sitting down, you don’t have to get up. You’re very kind. You see that sign up there that says ‘more jobs, less debt, smaller government.’ That’s what we want and that is not what we’ve got. With this president, we have fewer jobs, we have more debt and we have bigger government. That’s what’s wrong with this president, that’s why we have to get him out of office.

Request a Fact Check

July 24, 2012

Mitt Romney Delivers Remarks At The Vfw National Convention

The VFW is now over two million strong. It has a special place in America’s heart. Some of you fought recently, in Iraq or Afghanistan. Others are old enough to have marched, flown, or sailed by orders of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Whatever your age, whether you are a Republican or a Democrat, whenever you served – there’s one thing you have in common: You answered the call of your country in a time of war. From December 7th, 1941 to September 11, 2001, whenever America has been tested, you stepped forward. You come from our farms, our great cities, our small towns and quiet neighborhoods. Many of you have known violence so that your neighbors could only know peace. You have done more than protect America; your courage and service defines America. You are America at our best and it is an honor to address you.

Request a Fact Check

July 24, 2012

Mitt Romney Delivers Remarks At The Vfw National Convention

For the past decade, among those challenges has been the war in Afghanistan. As commander-in-chief, I will have a solemn duty to our men and women in uniform. A president owes our troops, their families, and the American people a clear explanation of our mission, and a commitment not to play politics with the decisions of war.

Request a Fact Check

July 24, 2012

Mitt Romney Delivers Remarks At The Vfw National Convention

As president, my goal in Afghanistan will be to complete a successful transition to Afghan security forces by the end of 2014. I will evaluate conditions on the ground and solicit the best advice of our military commanders. And I will affirm that my duty is not to my political prospects, but to the security of the nation.

Request a Fact Check

Show more statements

Where Your Friends Stand

Where You Stand

The Issues	Your Endorsement	Who Americans Trust More*
Abortion	Pick a Candidate	Trust dealing with social issues such as abortion and gay marriage. 09/09/2012 39% Romney 50% Obama
Afghanistan	Pick a Candidate	Trust handling international affairs 09/09/2012 38% Romney 51% Obama
Economy	Pick a Candidate	Trust handling the economy. 10/13/2012 44% Romney 48% Obama
Education	Pick a Candidate	Trust to do better job handling education. 08/25/2012 42% Romney 45% Obama
Energy	Pick a Candidate	Trust handling energy policy 08/25/2012 41% Romney 49% Obama
Environment	Pick a Candidate	No Data
Foreign Policy	Pick a Candidate	Trust handling international affairs 10/13/2012 40% Romney 50% Obama
Government Spending	Pick a Candidate	Trust dealing with the federal budget deficit 10/13/2012 47% Romney 44% Obama
Gun Control	Pick a Candidate	No Data
Health Care	Pick a Candidate	Trust handling health care policy 10/13/2012 43% Romney 49% Obama
Immigration	Pick a Candidate	Trust handling immigration issues 07/08/2012 43% Romney 46% Obama
Iran	Pick a Candidate	Trust handling international affairs 09/09/2012 38% Romney 51% Obama
Jobs	Pick a Candidate	Trust to do a better job creating jobs (AP-GfK) 08/20/2012 44% Romney 45% Obama
Medicare	Pick a Candidate	Trust handling Medicare 10/13/2012 38% Romney 53% Obama
Military Spending	Pick a Candidate	Better at being a good commander-in-chief (NBC/WSJ) 07/22/2012 35% Romney 45% Obama
Same-sex marriage	Pick a Candidate	Trust to handle social issues such as abortion and gay marriage 09/09/2012 39% Romney 50% Obama
Social Security	Pick a Candidate	Stronger on Social Security (Reuters/Ipsos) 09/10/2012 39% Romney 46% Obama
Taxes	Pick a Candidate	Trust handling taxes 10/13/2012 44% Romney 49% Obama

*Poll results from Post-ABC polls among registered voters unless otherwise noted. Complete results available in the Post poll archive.

About Issue Engine

The Issue Engine is a place to learn where the presidential candidates stand on the important issues of the election and choose which candidate better represents your views.

The Issue Engine

Afghanistan

Endorse

Reader Endorsements

Obama's Statements (9)

Endorse

Reader Endorsements

Romney's Statements (8)

I endorse on Afghanistan on The Washington Post Issue Engine.

Where Your Friends Stand

Where You Stand

About Issue Engine

Latest on Afghanistan