Surge Or Else

GOP House pointman Eric Cantor is issuing ultimatums to Obama on Afghanistan: Surge Or Else.

On Tuesday, the president sat down with congressional leadership from both parties and held a solemn and frank discussion about how to proceed in Afghanistan. The mood in the room was one of genuine concern for the difficulties that lie ahead. All sides agreed that this is a time to put politics aside — to do what’s best for our country and the men and women in the field.

There was broad agreement that our primary goal is to ensure that Afghanistan never again dissolves into the safe haven it once was for Al Qaeda terrorists to train for, plot and carry out attacks against the United States and its allies. Republicans reiterated to the president our belief that his initial strategy constitutes the best way to accomplish this goal. When the topic of political will for the mission was broached, I reassured the president that Republicans would offer him our support if he makes the right decision and accepts the recommendations of the commanders in the field. We also urged him to make a decision promptly so that any delay doesn’t signal a lack of commitment to Afghanistan and the region.

And if Obama doesn't give McChrystal every single soldier he's asking for and then some, Eric Holder and the Republicans will do...what, exactly?

Attack Obama ruthlessly in the Village press? Refuse to support his domestic or foreign policy agenda? Strike out on their own and forge relationships with other countries by going over Obama's head?

They're doing all that now. Kind of a hollow threat if you ask me.