Retired US Air Force Pilot Who Led Final Afghanistan Exit Launches Congressional Campaign

(MENAFN- Khaama Press) Retired US Air Force pilot Alex Pelbath, who commanded the last Kabul evacuation flight, launched his congressional campaign in South Carolina, pledging loyalty to Trump and stricter immigration controls.
Alex Pelbath, the retired US Air Force pilot who commanded the last evacuation flight from Kabul in 2021, has announced his candidacy for the US Congress.

Pelbath launched his campaign on Monday, August 25, at an event in South Carolina, where he confirmed his run for the state's 1st Congressional District seat.

During his speech, Pelbath voiced strong support for President Donald Trump and pledged to fight illegal immigration. He also vowed to oppose what he described as“woke policies” in US schools and the military.

With a distinguished career spanning more than 22 years in the Air Force, Pelbath logged over 4,000 flight hours, including 1,000 in combat. His military service has become the cornerstone of his political platform.

As commander of the final US evacuation mission from Kabul in August 2021, he piloted the last American aircraft out of Afghanistan. Pelbath has since characterized the operation as a“catastrophic withdrawal” under President Joe Biden's administration.

The congressional race is expected to be competitive, with several Republican and Democratic candidates already in the running for the 1st District seat.

Pelbath's candidacy highlights how the Afghanistan withdrawal remains a politically charged issue in US domestic debates. His military credentials and alignment with Trump's agenda may energize conservative voters.

The campaign will test whether his role in America's controversial exit from Afghanistan can translate into political momentum, shaping not only his own prospects but also wider discussions on US national security and leadership.

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