I think that people are missing a salient point. The average person working in that position wouldn’t have the exact data on the tip of their tongue. They might have rough estimates, which may, or may not be close to the real number. If called on, like say to testify in front of a Congressional hearing, they could easily gather the data with the expectation that someone may ask for it.
This whole thing is not about lack of basic knowledge, it is about contempt. They don’t care enough about Congress to make even the smallest effort. Their contempt is well founded, too. They know that it is all kabuki theater and that absolutely nothing will come from it. The GOP-e and the Dems who claim to care for this country will not do anything to stop the ruination of this country both at home and abroad.
“If called on, like say to testify in front of a Congressional hearing, they could easily gather the data with the expectation that someone may ask for it.”
One would think. Typical arrogant jerks. I used to work for a VP that would rip these clowns to shreds. If you were going to a meeting/presentation with him, you better have you ducks lined up. He showed no mercy. Most folks never made that mistake twice. I didn’t make it once. LOL!
With respect, I suggest that a fellow with this job title:
Michael Dumont, deputy assistant secretary of defense for Afghanistan, Pakistan and Central Asia.
...had better by God know what the casualty figures are on a daily basis. Especially, as you point out, if he's about to testify in front of Congress. Even Kabuki theater can be embarrassing.