On the recordJanuary 9, 2020
Truth matters, Mr. Speaker. Truth matters. Truth is not Democratic or Republican. Truth is not partisan. It is the basis of any society that hopes to be and hopes to remain civilized. And so, when a faction decides that facts are flexible, that facts are whatever validates their preconceived notions and not what is, then that nation may as well close shop and turn out the lights. The Trump administration's justification for military action against Iran has been inconsistent at best. Donald Trump's speech on January 8, 2020 was a pathetic spectacle. And the Congressional briefing was a sham, a cavalcade of falsehoods that has been denounced by Democrats and Republicans alike. Any rational observer, any fair-minded person can see it. Certainly, my Republican colleagues know. Which is why some have turned to audacious, outrageous statements. I have heard them say that dissenting voices support terrorism simply for asking questions. That those of us who want to avoid war are traitors. They have gone so far and have gone so low to blame President Obama for Iran's recent attack on U.S. forces. Going so far as to lie that Iran was given over $150 billion after the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action was signed. These are scurrilous lies. Let me repeat that: these accusations are lies, told by desperate people. Told by people too cowardly to put their ambitions aside to lift a finger for truth. I'd say they should be ashamed of themselves, but they are clearly past shame.…
