McCollum Statement on President Trump's Afghanistan Announcement

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), a senior member of the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, released the following statement ahead of President Donald Trump's address to the nation about Afghanistan:

"From the time he assumed office, President Trump has failed to conduct himself with the moral authority, competence, or dignity that is demanded of our Commander-in-Chief.

"Now President Trump is announcing a band-aid proposal that will send thousands of U.S. troops into a deteriorating Afghan security environment. This is not a military solution or a path to an exit strategy, but a recipe for an endless quagmire.

"The tragic mess in Afghanistan demands an Afghan solution and muscular U.S. diplomacy, not more American troops. The Afghan government must take responsibility for their nation's security and governance."