Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman, Democrat Henry Waxman ordered a pause in his panel's drafting of the measure as Democrats work to overcome differences within their party.

VOA: standard.2009.07.21

But at the same time,Admiral Mullen, who is Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, expressed confidence that with a solid Afghan partner, an increase in U.S.forces can bring a measure of security and stability to Afghanistan within a few years, as the 2007/2008 "surge" helped provide an opportunity for Iraq to move forward in a more secure environment.

VOA: standard.2009.11.04