Jim Bridenstine on War & Peace

Don't set timetables for withdrawal from any conflict

A: Yes.

Q: Do you support a timetable for withdrawal from Afghanistan?

A: No. Afghanistan has historically been a haven for Islamic terrorists planning attacks on the U.S. and its allies. I support intelligence gathering and counter-terrorist operations as necessary to protect the national security of the United States. I do not support setting timetables for withdrawal from any conflict. Setting a deadline communicates to our enemies how long it will take to outlast us and essentially ensures defeat for the United States.

Military force OK to prevent Iranian nukes

A: Yes. Terrorists should have no safe havens where they may organize and prepare for attacks against the United States, its armed forces and American citizens living or traveling abroad. U.S. military commanders need rules of engagement that allow them to immediately and appropriately respond to threats. Iranian nuclear weapons would further destabilize the Middle East and pose a threat to the entire world. The U.S. and its allies should use military force as needed to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons capability for its own use or for equipping terrorists.

Supports combat operations in Afghanistan.

Project Vote Smart infers candidate issue stances on key topics by summarizing public speeches and public statements. Congressional candidates are given the opportunity to respond in detail; about 11% did so in the 2012 races.

Project Vote Smart summarizes candidate stances on the following topic: 'Afghanistan: Do you support United States' combat operations in Afghanistan?'