WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Lisa McClain (R-MI), a member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) wrote a letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and General Mark Milley demanding a classified briefing following today’s committee hearing.
“The American people deserve to know the truth about what led to the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan. Did President Biden ignore his top military brass, or did he listen to their advice,” asked McClain. “Thirteen American servicemembers and more than 100 Afghan allies died as a result of President Biden’s withdrawal, and we need to know who is to blame for this situation. Since many questions were not answered during today’s hearing, we need to be briefed in a classified setting.”
For a copy of the letter, click here.
The full text is below.
Dear Secretary Austin and General Milley,
While I appreciate your willingness to testify before the House Armed Services Committee, I am requesting a follow-up classified briefing from you in the immediate future to respond to additional questions and get answers the American people are demanding.
Several of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle were unable to ask you questions regarding the situation in Afghanistan and our withdrawal operation. Per our Constitutional duties as the Legislative branch, it is our duty and responsibility to ask the questions and conduct oversight that our constituents demand.
In addition, during the hearing today several members of Congress asked questions that were not given answers due to the classified nature of their responses. In the hearing, you volunteered to answer those questions should they be asked in a classified session. The conclusion of the United States’ involvement in Afghanistan demands a thorough examination in a classified setting where my colleagues and I can get answers.
I am requesting a response to this inquiry within 10 business days. Your staff can contact my office and we can arrange this classified briefing as soon as possible.
