Washington Watch for Nov. 1

• Published: Nov 1, 2009

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Republicans in the Louisiana delegation are joining with their GOP congressional colleagues in calling for President Barack Obama to make a decision on whether to send more troops to Afghanistan.

Republican U.S. Rep. Rodney Alexander of Quitman visited Afghanistan and neighboring Pakistan four years ago. He describe the countries as dismal. What Alexander took away most from the trip was the desire for troops to receive their marching orders.

“They didn’t want to talk politics,” Alexander said. “They just wanted to do what they are trained to do.”

Much like in Iraq, Alexander said the nation needs to present a clear mission on winning the battle for the region.

“If we’re going to do it, let’s get it done,” Alexander said.

Gen. Stanley McChrystal, the top commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan, has recommended an increase of 40,000 troops in the region. Last week included the deadliest day in the country in four years when 14 Americans died.

Republican U.S. Rep. Charles Boustany of Lafayette said he has read McChrystal’s report on the desired strategy.

“It was very sobering and a very realistic assessment of the difficulty the coalition forces are facing there,” Boustany said. “The key to making this a success is a good counterinsurgency and to win the populations in the south away from the Taliban.”

The goal of the forces is beyond just Afghanistan and must include neighboring Pakistan, Boustany said.

“The stakes are very high,” Boustany said. “Pakistan is a nuclear state and we don’t want that getting into the hands of terrorists.”

Republican U.S. Rep. Bill Cassidy of Baton Rouge said he would like McChrystal to appear before Congress and explain his strategy.

“The issue is whether we get in or get out,” Cassidy said. “What people are uncomfortable with is this middle ground.”

Republican U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise of Metairie said Obama must have faith in McChrystal.