[Louisiana] adds voice to troop debate in Afghanistan

The (New Orleans) Times-Picayune ^ | October 22, 2009 | Bruce Alpert

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WASHINGTON -- Louisiana Republicans are joining their GOP congressional colleagues in urging President Barack Obama to act quickly on his top commander's request for up to 40,000 more troops in Afghanistan.

But the two Democrats in the delegation -- Sen. Mary Landrieu and Rep. Charlie Melancon -- said it's most important the president make the right decision on the conflicting assessments offered by military experts, including differing views by members of his administration.

Gen. Stanley McChrystal, the top U.S. commander, says a substantial troop increase is needed to combat a growing Taliban insurgency. But others, including Vice President Joe Biden, warn such an increase could lead to more American deaths without necessarily bringing stability to the war and argue for a more targeted approach aimed at terrorist and anti-U.S. elements in Afghanistan and neighboring Pakistan.

A new Washington Post-ABC News poll shows Americans are almost evenly divided, with 47 percent favoring the buildup of troops proposed by the military and 49 percent opposed.

Landrieu said Obama is right to consult with a wide range of experts and look for solutions that include military and diplomatic efforts as well as rebuilding Afghanistan's crumbling infrastructure.

"I don't blame him for taking the time to make the right decision, although clearly he can't take too much time," Landrieu said.

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