Politicians respond to new Pentagon strategy

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Politicians are reacting with praise and criticism to President Obama’s new strategy for a leaner, smaller military and the effect it might have in the Carolinas.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., says he thinks the nation’s fiscal crisis demands that everything, including defense, be on the table for spending cuts. But Graham warns that the failure of budget negotiations in Washington should not be an excuse to destroy national defense.

Democratic Rep. James Clyburn of South Carolina says the president is committed to maintaining a military that is ready and able to defeat any threats.

But Republican Rep. Joe Wilson says the strategy will lead to cutbacks of 10 to 15 percent over the next 10 years, which he says will harm the active duty force, their families and veterans.