Benishek Supports Ending U.S. Involvement In Afghanistan

Congressman Dan Benishek (MI-01) today voted to support it an amendment to the “Department of Defense Appropriations Act for FY 2013” (H.R. 5856) that would effectively end American military involvement in Afghanistan.

“This measure reflects my belief that there is no longer a military solution in the ongoing war in Afghanistan. I want to see the White House and Congress work together to responsibly bring this war to an expeditious end. I believe a majority of Northern Michigan’s citizens have grown tired of this decade-long conflict and want our troops to come home,” said Benishek, a doctor from Iron River whose daughter served in the Afghan conflict.

The amendment, offered by Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA-09), would defund American military operations in Afghanistan, but leave enough funding available to responsibly and safely bring American service members home from the conflict.

“I have been skeptical of this war for some time, but I have never doubted the skill and resolve of the American military. Our brave men and women in uniform have done everything our national leaders have asked them to do, and more. I strongly support the work of our armed forces, and I am confident that when this war finally does end, our soldiers will come home to a grateful nation,” added Benishek, a member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

Benishek visited Afghanistan as part of a Congressional Delegation for Members of Congress with a medical background on October 6, 2011. The purpose of the trip was to learn more about healthcare services provided to armed service members from military bases in Afghanistan.