Schneider Statement on Motion to Recommit
Statement
Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL) issued the below statement following his vote against the motion to recommit on S.J.Res. 7, a War Powers Resolution on Yemen, Directing Removal of U.S. Forces That Have Not Been Authorized by Congress.
"While I agree with the sentiments expressed in the motion to recommit (MTR), I strenuously object to the Republicans' cynical ploy of weaponizing support for Israel for partisan political gain. Support for the U.S.-Israel relationship must remain bipartisan.
"Let me be clear: I strongly and actively oppose the Global BDS Movement (BDS) because it denies the Jewish people's aspiration for a homeland and pushes the cause of peace further out of reach. That is why last month I introduced a bipartisan resolution in support of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and condemning the BDS. This is the substantive action that can pass both the House and the Senate, and if my colleagues sincerely want to make progress on this issue, I welcome their support.
"But today's MTR was not about these issues. Instead, it was a transparent effort to derail an important resolution striving to end the war in Yemen -- the single greatest humanitarian crisis facing the world today. As was demonstrated when the House previously voted on this matter, accepting this unrelated motion would procedurally kill the Yemen resolution, stall Congress's efforts to bring an end to the horrific Saudi-led war, and prolong an already unparalleled humanitarian disaster, leading to more unnecessary death and suffering.
"It was not easy for me to vote against a measure condemning BDS, but at this time, in these circumstances we have an immediate responsibility to help the people of Yemen.
"I hope now President Trump will sign the joint resolution. Meanwhile, I will continue working with my colleagues, Republican and Democrat, to further our bipartisan efforts to defend Israel and pursue stability, security and peace in the region."
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