Jones Expresses Disappointment on Afghanistan | Eastern NC Now

News Release:

    WASHINGTON, DC     Today, Congressman Walter B. Jones (NC-3) released the following statement on Afghanistan:

    "History shows that Afghanistan is the graveyard of empires. America has been digging its own grave there for 16 years, and it is disappointing to see this administration and congressional leaders in Washington intend to keep digging," said Congressman Jones. "Over 2,200 American lives have been lost. $800 billion of American taxpayers' money has been squandered. How many more Americans must we lose? How many more billions must we waste? There has been no real progress, and we still can't define how to measure success in Afghanistan. Enough is enough."

    "For far too long, congressional leadership on both sides of the aisle has aided and abetted the massive waste, fraud and abuse in Afghanistan," continued Jones. "They've worked to keep the money spigot open and to block debate on the issue. That cannot continue. It is time for the American public and their representatives to stand up and demand that Congress stop abdicating its constitutional responsibility. It is time for Congress to debate and vote on our future in Afghanistan."

    Prior to Monday evening's announcement on proposed troop level increases, Congressman Jones wrote to President Trump asking that he rethink America's strategy in Afghanistan (attached).

    Earlier this year, Congressman Jones also introduced H.R. 1666 with Congressman John Garamendi, legislation that would force a debate regarding the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan.

    For additional information, please contact Allison Tucker in Congressman Jones' office at (202) 225-3415 or allison.tucker@mail.house.gov.