Political Quotes

“This straightforward amendment ensures that the Interior Department will not allow leases under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to go to any person currently subject to sanctions by the U.S. Government under existing Federal laws. This amendment will ensure that no company can benefit from today's legislation if it helps prop up oppressive and destabilizing regimes, such as Iran or Syria. With the threat from Iran continuing to grow, it is vital that Congress respond with prudent and effective action. We must continue to isolate Iran, promote stability in the Middle East, and protect Israel. Growing our own domestic energy resources is an important part of further isolating Iran. My amendment ensures that we do not inadvertently or indirectly support the Iranian regime while opening American sources of energy. Iran is an existential threat to our best ally in the region, Israel; and it is a state sponsor of terrorism in addition to Iran's relentless pursuit of nuclear weapons and the abuse it directs to its own citizens. With regard to Syria, existing sanctions are already helping increase the pressure on President Assad's regime. Thanks to the sanctions, Syrian oil production has decreased as companies have cut ties with the government and exited the country. Despite this pressure, more action is needed. This amendment is a responsible next step to ensure that nothing in this bill will empower President Assad's continuing war against the Syrian people.…”