Political Quotes

“Iranian proxies have attacked U.S. forces in the Middle East 80 times since President Biden took office. Deterrence is failing. Many of us are deeply concerned that removing the 2002 AUMF will further erode American deterrence relative to Iran, further jeopardizing our troops in the region. Why are we concerned about this? First, the 2002 AUMF was, as recently as 2020, used to support the very justified killing of the Iranian Quds Force leader Qasem Soleimani. And, second, even as we are debating removing the 2002 AUMF right now, Iranian proxies have stepped up attacks on Americans. My amendment is simple and prudent and common sense. It requires the DNI to certify that the removal of the 2002 AUMF will not undermine American deterrence against Iran. This is prudent, and it is due diligence. Why wouldn't every U.S. Senator want to know whether the actions we are taking right now here in the Senate enhance or diminish deterrence against Iran, the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism? Under my amendment, the DNI has 30 days to do this analysis, and 30 days should not be considered an inconvenience when American lives are literally at stake. I urge all of my colleagues to support this prudent, commonsense amendment. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Virginia.”