The President believes that the war in...

"The insurgency in Afghanistan didn't just happen overnight, and we won't defeat it overnight. This will not be quick, nor easy.

But we must never forget: This is not a war of choice. This is a war of necessity. Those who attacked America on 9/11 are plotting to do so again. If left unchecked, the Taliban insurgency will mean an even larger safe haven from which Al Qaida would plot to kill more Americans.

So this is not only a war worth fighting; this is a -- this is fundamental to the defense of our people."

Barack Obama - August 17, 2009

"The trouble with Obama is that he gets into the moment and means what he says for that moment only.

Richard Cohen - September 29, 2009

Comments: 9

Matthew M. Sep 29, 2009, 5:38pm EDT

fundamental to the defense of our people

How about securing our borders first???

Our empire must be contracted if we are going to survive. All empires in history have collapsed after over extending themselves. We are about to repeat that.

lea and... c. Sep 30, 2009, 10:55pm EDT

we are not an empire just a glorified world policeman, spending a lot of money for defense no longer necessary. we would put this much money in peace projects we could all be friends by now.

Matthew M. Oct 1, 2009, 10:44am EDT

Our 'empire' is a little different from ones such as the Roman empire but it is nevertheless an empire.

spending a lot of money for defense no longer necessary

I think it can be necessary. We must maintain a strong defense. However we don't need to have hundreds of bases all over the world. We don't need to be fighting wars that are not a direct threat to our security. That's where we could save money.

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Monica C. Sep 29, 2009, 5:42pm EDT

So, was Barry smoking a joint when he uttered this quote? This has got to be the most asanine(sp?) thing ever said. Who's pocket is Barry in now?

What Barry is looking for is the Fall of America.

lea and... c. Sep 30, 2009, 10:56pm EDT

Why do you care America belongs to the world at large, did you hear?

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Charles Temm JR Sep 29, 2009, 6:11pm EDT

If he means it, he has to do better at defining it. He also better decide to fight the war with what the guys in charge say is needed instead of puttering around begging other nations for troops they won't give.

NATO has over 2 million men under arms and can't provide 10k more plus any helicopters. What a crock. We do the heavy lifting again (as predicted)

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