Meet the Press this morning featured an honest assessment of U.S. progress in our two wars and an interview with a man who may make a run for the White House in 2012.
First up was Gen. David Petraeus on the progress made in Afghanistan and the future role of the U.S. in Iraq.
Petraeus said the U.S. will face "tough loses" in Afghanistan and warned of the harm Guantanamo Bay has caused American forces in his first ever appearance on Meet the Press.
With the recent capture of a high-ranking Taliban leader and troop levels in Iraq at their lowest point since 2003, it would appear that there is reason to be hopeful about the future of our two wars in the Middle East.
But a military analysis in today's New York Times is a somber reminder of how much work still needs to be done. The paper reports that the day when Afghan troops are ready to operate independently seems a long way off.
Petraeus told me: "I have repeatedly said that the these types of efforts are hard. And they're hard all the time. I don't use words like optimist or pessimist, I use realist. And the reality is that it's hard."
The general warned that Americans should expect similar results as the surge in Iraq - that means increased causalities will accompany our increased military presence. The renewed Afghan campaign is part of a strategy that is likely to last 12 to 18 months.
Petraeus also avoided directly sharing his thoughts on Don't Ask, Don't Tell. He would only go as far as to say "it's very important" that the policy continued to be reviewed. It is unlikely we will get a true sense of what the general thinks about it unless he is called to testify before Congress.
While Petraeus was hesitant to share his views on gays in the military, Gov. Tim Pawlenty did not equivocate while sharing his. "I support don't ask, don't tell," he said.
On some of the other issues, he wasn't as clear. He said the stimulus failed, based on the Obama administration's goals.
Check out the MTP Web sitefor Pawlenty's take on health care, climate change and the GOP outlook for the November midterms.
Plus, Reps. Pence and Van Hollen debate with E.J. Dionne and Peggy Noonan. Hear Van Hollen chair of the DCCC, predict what will happen to the Democrats majority come November. And see why Pence is not excited about a health care summit with the president.
