Our fight in Afghanistan is critical to the security interests of the American people, and I support the President’s strategy to dismantle al Qaeda and other transnational terrorist networks and stabilize the country. I appreciate General David McKiernan’s service as Commander of both our U.S. forces and NATO’s International Security Assistance Force, especially his role in streamlining the chain of command in Afghanistan and in bringing more focus to the security environment in southern Afghanistan. “I am encouraged by Secretary Gates’ recommendation that the President nominate Lt. General Stanley McChrystal and Lt. General David Rodriguez to the posts of Commander and Deputy Commander. I met Lt. General McChyrstal twice while he was serving as Commander of Joint Special Operations Command, and I believe his knowledge of Afghanistan and the region will strengthen the implementation of our strategy. I encourage the President to nominate Lt. Generals McChyrstal and Rodriguez so the Senate can confirm both of them as soon as possible. “Afghanistan is a tough operating environment, and our military, intelligence, and civilian personnel are doing a tremendous job. House Republicans stand ready to work with the President to ensure our troops and civilians have all the resources and support from Congress they need to complete their mission successfully.”