Navy SEAL Storms Congress

Press Release

Ryan Zinke (MT-00) Sworn in as First SEAL in House

Today, 23-year Navy SEAL veteran and former Commander at SEAL Team Six Ryan Zinke (R-MT) was sworn into Congress as the first ever SEAL to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives. Congressman Zinke's unique military experience will provide Congress with invaluable insight and expertise on matters of foreign policy, counter-terrorism, veterans' affairs, national security and defense.

"The people of Montana sent me to Washington because the future of our nation is at stake, and they trust me to fight for them in Congress the way I fought for them on the battlefield," said Congressman Zinke. "As a SEAL, I am no stranger to operating under intense pressure; and the most important lesson I learned was not to yield to political pressure, only higher principle. I will carry that lesson with me to the halls of Congress and lead on important issues to help move Montana forward. I look forward to working with Senators Steve Daines and Jon Tester on advancing issues that are important to Montana, like reforming public lands use, building the Keystone XL Pipeline, securing our borders, honoring our veterans, and strengthening our national defense."

Zinke continued: "We are at a time when our nation and Constitution face threats both foreign and domestic, and due to a lack of leadership and abundance of politics in Washington our vulnerabilities are mounting. I took an oath, as a SEAL and a Member of Congress, to support and defend the Constitution, and I am prepared to do exactly that. Whether it's the growing threat of ISIS, the failure of the Administration to secure our southern border, or the ever-expanding reach of the federal government, Montanans can count on me to bring decisive leadership to Washington."

Surrounded by family and friends, Congressman Zinke was sworn in by House Speaker John Boehner then headed to his Capitol Hill Office where he posted the United States Flag, the Montana State Flag and the Navy SEAL Flag just outside of his office door.

Congressman Zinke's distinguished career with the SEALs began in 1985 following his graduation from the University of Oregon. Zinke was awarded two Bronze Stars for combat and served as Deputy Commander of Special Forces in Iraq and retired as the "Dean" of the Naval Special Warfare graduate school. For more information visit Congressman Zinke's official website, www.Zinke.House.gov.

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