Where the delegation stands on a troop increase in Afghanistan.

Posted at 10:12 AM on October 30, 2009 by Tom Scheck
Filed under: Campaign 2010, U.S. House

MPR aired a story this morning that looked at where Minneosta's congressional delegation stood on sending more troops to Afghanistan. GOP Rep. John Kline will discuss the situation on MPR's Midday at 11 AM.

Here's where the delegation stands on the issue:

DFL Sen. Amy Klobuchar says she's waiting to see President Obama's plan before she commits to sending more troops to the region. Listen

DFL Sen. Al Franken says he's gathering more information on the issue and is waiting to see President Obama's plan. Listen

DFL Rep. Tim Walz says he's gathering more information and is waiting to see President Obama's plan. He said he may support a troop increase if Obama recommends one. Listen

GOP Rep. John Kline says President Obama should listen to Gen. Stanley McChrystal and send 40,000 troops to the region. Listen

GOP Rep. Erik Paulsen said he wants to see President Obama's plan and hear from McChrystal. Listen

DFL Rep. Betty McCollum said she could support a troop increase if certain conditions are met. They include a stronger police force and a more stabilized central government. McCollum said she would not support an increase of 40,000 troops. Listen

DFL Rep. Keith Ellison said he doesn't support a troop increase and wants to see a greater commitment to rebuilding the country. Listen

GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann said she supports McChrystal's plan to send 40,000 troops to the region. (we had a problem with the audio. I'll post soon). Listen

DFL Rep. Collin Peterson did not return repeated calls for comment.

DFL Rep. Jim Oberstar said he wants to know specifics before he supports an increase. He wants to know how much a troop increase would cost, how long the troops would be there and if there's an international concensus on the matter. Listen

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