As American public opinion remains roughly split over U.S. involvement in Afghanistan, the ongoing White House debate over strategy has created a political vacuum strengthening the hand of Afghan-skeptics.
The public perception of a vacillating president stuck in political limbo will only fuel the gradual erosion of popular support for American troops on the ground. Although still reversible, this process will only accelerate in the absence of firm executive leadership.
Along with an actual physical surge with more troops and resources, public confidence can only be restored through the launch of a comprehensive rhetorical surge clearly outlining the mission in compelling and convincing terms. More than ever, President Obama must take a clear and determined stand on Afghanistan. The president must present a vision that promotes and sustains the mission's unity and continuity of purpose.
The sense of aimlessness dominating the status quo has an eroding impact on the overall mission and morale. There is a growing perception among many of the 68,000 American troops in Afghanistan - not to mention the 32,000 allied forces who seek and rely upon U.S. leadership - of a disengaged commander in chief gone AWOL.
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