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.
The continued deployment of U.S. troops in Afghanistan is an issue that hits home for millions of Americans, including those who lost loved-ones since combat operations there began fourteen years ago after the September 11 attacks.
The violent attacks against Israeli civilians over the past several days must not be met with silence from the international community but with strong condemnation.
"Yesterday's alleged ballistic missile test by Iran, likely in violation of U.N. Security Council Resolutions, makes absolutely clear why there must be no ambiguity when it comes to the United States and our partners' willingness to enforce Iran's obligations under UN resolutions and the JCPOA...
I join my friend, Mr. Forbes, in opposition to this amendment, Mr. Speaker. This amendment would harm America’s national security.
This is my 35th year in the Congress of the United States. I don't know that I voted against, prior to this year, either a defense appropriation bill or defense authorization bill.
The Secretary of Defense's announcement that a working group will be established to study the implications of permitting transgender Americans to serve openly in our military is welcome news.
I want to thank Rep. Jim McGovern for his work to ensure that Congress plays a role in shaping the scope of our military engagement overseas.
"I am deeply disappointed that the new Senate Republican Majority has taken the irresponsible route of allowing key national security protections to expire.
We’re talking about young people who have grown up in this country, loving this country, believing in its values, who want to serve their country and to protect the freedoms and democracy that they have enjoyed.
want to congratulate Senator Cardin, the Ranking Member of the Foreign Relations Committee, for his hard work to reach this compromise with Chairman Corker.