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The transcript discusses the U.S. troop drawdown plan in Afghanistan, initiated by President Obama, aiming to transition from combat to support by 2014. Despite military gains, challenges remain with the Taliban's strength and Afghan forces' readiness. Public opinion is largely against the mission due to high costs and a preference to address domestic issues like unemployment.

What is the timeline for the troop drawdown in Afghanistan as per the president's plan?

• All troops by Christmas

• 23,000 soldiers by Christmas, 10,000 by next summer

• 10,000 soldiers by Christmas, 23,000 by next summer

• 10,000 soldiers by next summer, 23,000 by Christmas

What was the primary objective of the surge of American forces in Afghanistan?

• To establish a permanent military base

• To reverse the Taliban's momentum and disrupt al Qaeda

• To negotiate peace with the Taliban

• To train Afghan security forces

Why did President Obama decide on a rapid withdrawal from Afghanistan?

• To focus on other international conflicts

• Because Afghan forces were ready

• To draw down from a position of strength

• Due to a lack of military success

How does the public view Obama's Afghan mission compared to the Iraq conflict under George Bush?

• More popular

• Equally unpopular

• Less costly

• More successful

What is the annual cost of the Afghan mission, and what do many Americans prefer to focus on instead?

• $150 billion; focus on infrastructure

• $120 billion; focus on unemployment

• $100 billion; focus on education

• $120 billion; focus on healthcare