David Perdue: “I am reserving the right to object. Mr. President, just yesterday, Secretary Pompeo joined the foreign ministers at NATO…”

“I am reserving the right to object. Mr. President, just yesterday, Secretary Pompeo joined the foreign ministers at NATO headquarters in Brussels, including Foreign Minister Cavusoglu from Turkey. Secretary Pompeo had quite a lot to discuss with him, as this administration continues its engagement with Turkey's leadership on the heels of President Trump's meeting with President Erdogan last week. In light of these diplomatic efforts, I respectfully object to this resolution at this time. While the content of the legislation before us merits undivided consideration, its passage would undermine the administration's overcoming real challenges in our bilateral relationship with Turkey. I look forward to working with the administration and Senator Cruz and Senator Menendez in holding our NATO ally responsible for its commitment made when it joined the NATO community of like-minded nations founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty, and the rule of law. For those reasons, I object. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The objection is heard. The Senator from New Jersey.”