The Senate voted unanimously Wednesday to confirm Gen. David Petraeus as the commander of American forces in Afghanistan, just one week after President Barack Obama ousted Gen. Stanley McChrystal from the job.
Petraeus — heralded for his time as commander of operations in Iraq — leaves his post as the head of U.S. Central Command and is expected to be in Kabul as soon as Friday. Obama’s selection of the popular general credited with the success of the “surge” strategy in Iraq is viewed by many as an affirmation of the President’s commitment to combat in Afghanistan, which became America’s longest military engagement earlier this month.
The 99-0 vote showed just how respected Petraeus is, from the most conservative war supporters to its liberal critics.
Petraeus replaces McChrystal, who was relieved of his duties June 23 by Obama after an article in Rolling Stone magazine revealed the general had made disparaging remarks about top White House officials and strategic foreign allies such as France.
(Source: Politico)
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2 Responses
The liberal critics’ “support” is more likely support for Mr. Obama and a vote for kovod ha’malchus than it is for the General’s abilities or their true commitment to the war.
#1
You missed the point. Even those who oppose this ridiculous war want the best commander possible so that the nightmare may end ASAP.