Afghanistan

On January 1, 2015, Afghan forces assumed full responsibility for security as United States and other coalition forces were withdrawn from Afghanistan.  This policy change transitioned the U.S. to a more limited role of providing training and logistical assistance to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) and undertaking counterterrorism operations.  Congressman Lynch supported this transition, however, he believes that if the U.S. is going to maintain even a limited presence in Afghanistan, Congress must not be hindered in exercising its oversight mandate.

Having traveled fourteen times to Afghanistan as a Member of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, the Congressman has gained a keen awareness of the significant challenges the country continues to face and the importance of ensuring the success of the U.S. mission.  As Chairman of the Committee’s National Security Subcommittee, the Congressman will continue to press for meaningful transparency necessary to conduct robust oversight, particularly in light of recent disturbing trend in which the Department of Defense has withheld important data such as that pertaining to the ANDSF.  Congress, and the American people they represent, deserve not to be kept in the dark when our service members are asked to put their lives on the line.