Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, as a co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad, I rise in support of the Conference Report to Accompany the National Defense Authorization Act. In the past decade, we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of Americans taken hostage by rogue states and bad actors who are trying to leverage civilians to get what they want. Right now, according to the Foley Foundation, there are currently at least 64 Americans held hostage or wrongfully detained in countries overseas. They are held in 16 different countries and territories. Now, more than ever, we must keep up the drumbeat to bring these individuals home. That is why I am so heartened that the NDAA includes two of my bills to support and assist Americans wrongfully detained abroad and their loved ones fighting to get them safely back home. First, the U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day Act designates March 9 as Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day and requests that the President issue a yearly proclamation urging Americans to observe this day in remembrance for those held hostage. The bill also requires the Hostage and Wrongful Detainee flag be flown at the Capitol, the White House, and numerous other Federal buildings. These families need our support. These families need the Nation's attention. These families need this legislation.…”