On the recordDecember 21, 2010
I rise in support of the New START treaty. I do so for several reasons. First, of course, the treaty is essential for national security. It promotes transparency and stability between the two countries that possess the majority of the world's nuclear weapons. It will decrease the likelihood of a nuclear weapon falling into the hands of a rogue nation. For the residents of my State, the treaty is close to home, literally. Alaska and Russia are less than 3 miles apart at the closest point in the Bering Sea. Commerce, scientific, educational, and cultural exchanges are commonplace between Alaska and our Russian neighbors. So peaceful coexistence with Russia is more than an abstract concept to my constituents; it is a way of life. The second reason this treaty is personal for Alaskans is because of our close proximity to North Korea. When North Korea's leader exercises his political muscle by firing test missiles or threatening to attack the United States, Alaskans get nervous because we are most directly in the line of fire. Thankfully, my home State is home to the ground-based missile defense system.
