War on Terror

Obama:

-ended the war (duh)

-approval rating was a record low, and poll numbers showed a steady decline in public support for his war policies

-says the nation needs to enlist soldiers returning home in the rebuilding of the nation's economy

Rick Perry:

- says ending the war is irresponsible because it puts the country is jeopardy

"The idea that a commander-in-chief would stand up and signal to the enemy a date certain of when we’re going to pull our troops out I think is irresponsible. You need to be talking to your commanders in the field. You need to be working with the experts who understand what is going on in those countries, for instance. We need to finish our mission in Iraq and Afghanistan. You better believe I want out kids home as soon as we can and safe."

Ron Paul:

-against war, believes it was a mistake

-against invasive war; excessive offense is unnecessary

"I'm saying we should take our marching orders from our Constitution. We should not go to war without a declaration. We should not go to war when it's an aggressive war. This is an aggressive invasion. We've committed the invasion of this war. And it's illegal under international law. That's where I take my marching orders, not from any enemy."

Mitt Romney:

-supported Bush administration's on Iraq policies

-supports maintaining pressure on terror

-called decision to end war an "astonishing failure" driven by "naked political calculation or sheer ineptitude"

"The defeat of this radical and violent faction of Islam must be achieved through a combination of American resolve, international effort, and the rejection of violence by moderate, modern, mainstream Muslims. An effective strategy will involve both military and diplomatic actions to support modern Muslim nations. America must help lead a broad-based international coalition that promotes secular education, modern financial and economic policies, international trade, and human rights.