National Security
Democrats are committed to enhancing our national security and advancing key American interests, while supporting human rights and democratic values at home and abroad.
In the 117th Congress, Democrats passed a bipartisan defense authorization bill that strengthened our national security, ensured our military personnel have the resources they need to defend our country, and bolstered our allies and international interests. In the 118th Congress, Democrats will build on these gains by continuing to help President Biden keep Americans safe.
We will continue to work with the Administration to provide our diplomats and our troops with the tools needed to carry out their missions abroad safely and effectively. This will include continuing to work with our allies to ensure Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine ends in defeat for Putin, that America maintains its competitiveness against China’s authoritarian challenges, and that the world is free from threats posed by Iran.
"Today's apparent nuclear test by North Korea reminds the world precisely why the United States and its international partners must take a firm line against any attempts by radical regimes to pursue nuclear weapons. ...
As we begin the second session of the 114th Congress, there are a number of critical issues the American people expect to see Congress address.
I thank the gentlelady for yielding, and I rise in support of this legislation. I want to thank the Ranking Member [of the Homeland Security Committee], Bennie Thompson, [Rep.] Lofgren, who worked very hard on this, and Democrats on the Homeland Security Committee and on the Immigration Policy and Enforcement Subcommittee for their hard work to ensure that this bill will protect Americans from the threat of terror while we remain true to our highest principles and ideals.
Congress has no responsibility greater than to keep Americans safe, and one of the most important things it can do is make certain that suspected terrorists cannot get their hands on weapons of mass slaughter like those used in the San Bernardino shootings last week.
I’m pleased that Democrats and Republicans were able to come together to make constructive changes to our visa waiver program.
Today’s decision by Defense Secretary Carter to open every military occupation specialty to women will strengthen our Armed Forces and help ensure that it reflects the American value of equal opportunity.
Yesterday’s IAEA report on Iran’s military program confirms what we’ve known for years – that, in spite of its leaders’ stonewalling, dissembling, and deception, Iran indeed pursued a secret nuclear weapons program at least through 2003 and conducted weapons development activities after that point, even as late as 2009.
It is sad that we [have to] bring this Resolution to the Floor, and it is sad that, too often, we see the results of terrorism around the world.
President Obama and Congressional Democrats have a clear record of supporting a robust national defense, which is why the President proposed a strong defense budget.
“I was deeply disappointed that UNESCO considered a resolution today that denies Jewish history in Israel.