National Security Must Be National Priority

Statement

Over the last week, folks in New York, New Jersey, and Minnesota have been especially on our minds and in our hearts. My heart goes out to the victims of these attacks and their families, and I'm thankful for our law enforcement, first responders, and other brave heroes who were there when they were needed most.

As I travel and meet with folks in each of the 16 counties of the Third Congressional District every month, a topic that comes up often is the issue of our national security. Folks I talk to have great concerns about the safety and security of our homeland and her people. And their concerns are warranted. From Paris to Brussels to San Bernardino to St. Cloud - we've seen pain and suffering inflicted upon innocent people across the globe.

These attacks illustrate the pressing need to prioritize our national security - now more than ever - to keep our families and our loved ones safe. However, we're still waiting on the administration's complete and comprehensive strategy to defeat ISIS.

Here in Congress, we have sent a strong message that identifies atrocities at the hands of ISIS for what they are - war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. We have passed a congressional resolution which specifically condemns the terrorist organization's systematic persecution and senseless violence towards Christians, Yazidis, and other minorities in the Middle East. While condemning these terrorists is a significant and necessary step in support of humanity, a clear plan from the administration on how to defeat ISIS is critical to keeping Americans safe and furthering freedom for all people around the world.

Additionally, an important part of a comprehensive strategy to defeat ISIS requires continued emphasis on the importance of our strategic partnerships and work with our allies. We will continue to face challenges which threaten our national security and must continue to have no tolerance within our nation, and among our allies, for terrorism and those who wish us harm.

What's more, counterterrorism measures must reflect a holistic understanding of potential vulnerabilities. The Securing our Agriculture and Food Act (H.R. 5346), legislation I introduced in the U.S House, works to secure our nation's agriculture industry, livestock and food supply from agro-terrorism threats and attacks, as well as large-scale animal outbreaks. The ultimate intention of my bipartisan bill is to protect our consumers in Iowa and across the nation and I'm pleased it continues to progress in the U.S. House of Representatives.

It's no question we live in a dangerous world. Recent events around our country also remind us to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. We have complex and ever evolving security challenges threatening our homeland, our allies, and our national interests each and every day. So let's work together to keep our nation and our communities in Iowa, and across America, safe.

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