Ben Cardin actually said...

"I think that the foot-dragging on the code of conduct is a problem, and that is something that we shine a light on and encourage the parties, and particularly China, to get serious about resolving."

"The United States has been the guarantor of peace and prosperity in the region for generations, and we cannot remain complacent in light of these very serious challenges."

"It does seem to me that this committee is concerned that there are a lot of risk factors in the China seas."

"Provocative conduct is not helpful at all, and we have seen more and more of these provocative incidents."