The Times reported last week that Ahmed Karzai is paid by the C.I.A. to help recruit an Afghan paramilitary force that operates at the agency’s direction. He has been linked to Afghanistan’s narcotics trade and is the most powerful figure in the swath of southern Afghanistan where the Taliban’s insurgency is strongest.

I listened to the program and I became more convinced that we should get out of there.

Mr. Bryant, I agree that our invasion and occupation of Iraq has given what President Obama has called 'twisted Islam' new life, determination and powerful recruiting tools. Our challenge is finding practical ways to permanently reverse what now seems to be a 'bright future' for the 'Twisted Islamists'. Doing so will require the same dedication, ... See Moresacrifice and persistence that our Founders mustered to first Declare Independence than fight to assure it. [Written while visiting 18th Century Williamsburg in the Virginia Colony]

While I agree that there is a no win situation in Afghanistan for the U.S. or the Afghan people, I truly believe that not one more life should be lost in trying to bring democracy to a country that is in no way ready for it. As a member of the Vietnam War generation, I have deja' vu experiences daily when I watch the news. I am also dealing with a ... See Moregrandson with severe PTSD after stuffing bodybags in Fallujah for 8 months in 2007-2008. His best friend from that deployment recently lost both legs and an arm in Afghanistan. The madness must stop even if it costs Obama the presidency.