Political Quotes

“I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1392, the Protection of Saudi Dissidents Act of 2021, an important bill introduced by the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Connolly). Though Saudi Arabia has taken steps to reform, its progress has been marred by the Saudi Government's brutality against dissidents and most notably the detention and abuse of numerous peaceful protesters and the brutal killing of Washington Post journalist and U.S. resident, Jamal Khashoggi. The Biden administration's release of the DNI report was a good step toward accountability for the killing of Jamal Khashoggi, but further steps need to be taken. This bill imposes reasonable limits on U.S. weapons transfers to Saudi intelligence agencies shown to be involved in the killing of Jamal Khashoggi and political repression until such repression and abuse of dissidents comes to an end. In conclusion, let me be clear, nothing in this legislation would deny the Saudi Government the ability to defend its territory against attacks from external threats or inhibit its ability to defend the United States military, diplomatic personnel, or facilities in the kingdom. It is important that the United States stands clear on these matters, speaking loudly in defense of human rights and taking action when they are grossly violated. I ask the support of all my colleagues to vote for this bill. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.…”