Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my amendment to have transparency and accountability over American taxpayer money sent abroad. I am proud to be supported by Chairman Castro and Chairman Sires of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, as well as Representatives Escobar, Vargas, Jacobs, Malinowski, and Levin. Support from members on both the Armed Services and the Foreign Affairs Committees is a reminder that our national security relies on both the State and Defense Departments. This amendment provides additional oversight over Section 333 funding in the Northern Triangle region of Central America. Section 333 gives the Department of Defense authority to conduct or support programs providing training and equipment to the national security forces of foreign countries. {time} 1915 Unfortunately, we have seen numerous instances of abuse and misuse of defense equipment provided to foreign governments, particularly in Central America. This includes using U.S.-provided equipment to repress local people and perpetuate human rights violations. In some instances, U.S. materials have been used against our own U.S. personnel in the area. Let me be clear, U.S.-funded equipment in the Northern Triangle region of Central America has been used by foreign government units against our U.S. personnel working in the region. Sadly, we can't brush off these disturbing instances as being far in the past. These problems continue to happen.…”