“I rise in strong opposition to the amendment on Afghanistan offered by the gentleman from Massachusetts, Mr. McGovern.

“In late March of this year, the President announced his comprehensive outline for Afghanistan and Pakistan, highlighting the threat to critical U.S. security interests that would arise should al-Qaeda and the Taliban reclaim or establish safe havens in these countries.

“The President clearly outlined our goals:  to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al-Qaeda. 

“But success requires a sustained commitment and support for both the mission and the brave Americans carrying it out.

“We have only just begun, and yet the McGovern amendment is already looking for an exit strategy.

“This amendment sends a terrible message about U.S. resolve to both friends and foes alike.

“This is precisely why the Obama administration also opposes the McGovern Amendment, stating that the McGovern amendment, ‘…would demonstrate a lack of commitment to the new strategy, it will signal to our Afghan partners that the U.S. presence and efforts in country are fleeting, and it demonstrates to Al Qaeda that we are not intending to see this new strategy through.’

“It could hamper U.S. strategic goals in the region.

“Rather than focusing on an exit strategy, we should instead be focused on working with the Obama Administration to provide the necessary flexibility to craft policies that offer the best chance of success, while ensuring Congressional consultation and notification. 

“The underlying bill provides such a balance.

“Chairman Skelton and Ranking Member McKeon, Chairman Berman and I, ask you to support ongoing U.S. efforts in Afghanistan and to oppose the McGovern amendment.”

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