GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Some of our local elected leaders are calling for more action than others in their responses to the attacks in Afghanistan.
After an event at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, Democratic Senator Tammy Baldwin had a tough time finding the words to explain her reaction to the attacks in Kabul.
“Almost speechless when I heard about the explosions, about the deaths, the casualties of our troops, but also of the Afghan civilians.”
Republican Senator Ron Johnson has spent the last few days attacking the Biden administration’s withdrawal execution. But after the airport attacks, Johnson tweeted praise and prayers for the troops.
“Reports of terrorist attacks in Kabul are horrific and heartbreaking,” Johnson said in the tweet. “God bless our fallen service members, their families, the military & innocent civilians still in harm’s way. Our troops are the finest among us. I continue to pray for their safety and those trying to evacuate.”
Sixth Congressional District Representative Glenn Grothman also tweeted his prayers for the family and friends of the fallen and injured.
“I am praying for the family and friends of the fallen and injured American servicemembers and Afghan allies after today’s attack at the Kabul airport,” said Grothman in the tweet. “Preventing terror attacks like this are the reason we went to Afghanistan initially and should not be tolerated.”
Eighth Congressional District Representative Mike Gallagher released a statement calling for action.
“At least four United States Marines are dead who did not need to die,” wrote Gallagher in the statement. “Please pray for their families and for the other service members who sustained injuries. This tragedy is the direct result of the failure of this incompetent withdrawal plan, and I fear the worst is still to come. We need all hands on deck to prevent further loss of life. Congress must immediately reconvene and take control of this situation, which has spiraled out of control. A good first step would be passing my bill to ensure no Americans are left behind.”
FOX 11 asked Baldwin what she believes the next measure should be.
“Certainly I believe that we have a moral commitment to not only bringing home U.S. nationals who are still over there, all of our troops, but those who served side by side with our troops and aided us in our mission,” said Baldwin. “While there is public discussion of certain deadlines, until we have accomplished what we set out to accomplish, we’re going to keep working on that. That is my belief.”
Senator Johnson visited Fort McCoy Wednesday where Afghan refugees are being housed. Baldwin says she plans to visit there next week.
