Tina Smith: “let me close with one final observation. I feel very strongly that this issue has become a partisan political issue. It…”

“let me close with one final observation. I feel very strongly that this issue has become a partisan political issue. It should not be a partisan political issue. We have no more fundamental or important constitutional responsibility than to provide for the defense of this country. And to be on the floor filibustering a bill that defends America, protects America from incoming missiles is an outrage. We can disagree on the degree, we can disagree on the architecture, we can disagree on the timing. But we ought not to be filibustering it. We ought to be having an up-or-down vote on it. I think everybody ought to be on record today--not having it put off, but be on record today. Are you for it, or are you against it? We ought to be recorded so the American people can judge us when the time comes. This Nation's people, treasury, and industry are vulnerable to missile attack. The technology is here. All that is lacking is the political will. We cannot delay any longer. We have to get on with the business of defending America. History, I think, will look at this debate as a key point in our Nation's history. Let us consider the consequences of our actions carefully and keep faith with the American people, who rely upon us to protect their security. They do not have anybody else to turn to. It is our responsibility, our obligation. All we are asking is that we exercise it. All the Senator from Arizona is asking for is a vote.”