Prime Minister Stephen Harper says he could not live with himself if he reduced Canada’s military mission in Afghanistan to further his own political self-interest and that he’s even prepared to lose the next election if it means standing by the military.

It’s almost like our Prime Minister is willing to, get this, lose an election over something he believes is right. This is absolutely unbelievable.

I’m just not used to this idea. I’ve been living in Canada and following politics in this nation(s) much too long to comprehend the thought of a man of principle in charge.

“But Afghanistan is a unique mission. It’s neither war nor peace-keeping. It’s a security operation that involves pretty direct combat with the enemy.�

Harper said he understands the NDP’s position – that Canada should not have sent its troops to Afghanistan and should withdraw now – better than any of his political opponents because at least this party has been consistent. But he suggested he has even less time for the two other parties.

“The Liberals and the Bloc tell me: rebalance the mission. What does that mean? I mean, what the hell does that mean?�

“We’ve got guys there, they’re in the most dangerous province in the country. Yes, we’re trying to do development and humanitarian assistance and we’re doing that. But the fact of the matter is that they’ve got guys shooting at them. And they’ve got the most concentrated group of enemy combatants right there. It isn’t an option to cut down the military side of the operation. They have to do what is necessary to protect the local people and protect themselves. And nothing less.�

Harper said it would be “completely irresponsible� to reduce Canada’s military mission in Afghanistan.

“If other parties want to go to the people and take that position – ‘We’d leave them there but we’d tell them not to defend themselves’ – let them explain that to the Canadian people.â€?

Unfortunately, the media would never make them explain that. They’re too busy calling the Prime Minister “Scary.”

Blockquotes from Canada.com [via]