ICYMI: Biden’s decision to have the United States leave Afghanistan was met with bipartisan praise, including from former President Donald Trump

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Democratic Party, the organization that advocates for the future of Indiana and its families, today issued the following statement from Chairman Mike Schmuhl in response to President Joe Biden’s address to the nation on Afghanistan and after the United States formally ended its 20-year presence in the country:

“Over the last few days, we’ve watched as citizens risked their lives to escape the grip of an autocratic terrorist organization that puts lives – particularly women and children – at risk. These images are tragic and heart wrenching, and Indiana Democrats express a deep sadness for the people of Afghanistan who stood with the United States and the shared vision of a free and fair democracy for that nation. 

Since President George W. Bush led American servicemembers into Afghanistan two decades ago, it has been the burden of every American president – Republican and Democratic – to continue the United States’ mission of promoting peace and democracy across the globe, especially in Afghanistan. President Joe Biden is now the fourth president to oversee this mission, and true to his promise, Biden stated clearly there would not be a fifth president to share this burden. President Biden’s decision to have the United States withdraw its presence in Afghanistan was a tough one and was met with bipartisan praise – including from former President Donald Trump.  

The U.S. presence in the Middle East has been a complex situation from 9/11 to today. The responsibility of the nation’s longest-standing war falls on both political parties, not just the current leader in the Oval Office. Partisan attacks and the opportunistic impulse to rewrite 21st century foreign policy and military history in such a short period of time is irresponsible and creates more divisions among Americans at a time when unity, patriotism, and understanding is essential. We also must honor the American servicemembers who bravely fought for democracy in the Middle East, especially those who were wounded or gave the ultimate sacrifice. 

President Joe Biden’s remarks this afternoon were direct and honest, struck the right tone, and didn’t shoot from the hip. Indiana Democrats plan to follow the President’s leadership and example during this ongoing situation, because it is necessary for all Americans and Hoosiers – regardless of political affiliation – to unite and honor the family members we lost while remembering how vital, and how fragile, democracy is in our world.”

– Mike Schmuhl, Chairman of the Indiana Democratic Party

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