Political Quotes

“I certainly join with my colleagues in mourning the passing, under tragic circumstances, of Ambassador Stevens, as well as the deaths of Sean Smith and security officers Tyrone Woods and Glen Doherty, as well as all those who were injured. I think that all of us can agree that what happened to Ambassador Stevens and the rest of the diplomatic staff should concern everyone, concern all Americans. These attacks were wrong, and it's appropriate that we honor Ambassador Stevens. The resolution, as I read it, is not complete, though, because this discussion that we're having here on the floor is missing some elements; and I'd like to bring them forward right now. We have to ask the question: Why was that consulate in Benghazi, Libya, so lightly defended to begin with? Did anyone know that Benghazi was still a flash point? I mean, we overthrew the government. Did anyone know that when the government fell, al Qaeda's flag was flying over Benghazi? Did anyone know about al Qaeda's presence in Libya that came after the war? That would have been a constant factor to be mindful of with respect to protecting those who serve. Why wasn't more care given to protect U.S. personnel? The other thing is, there were warnings in diplomatic circles, specifically with respect to Libya, because of the ferment that has been going on in the broader Muslim world. These are concerns that should be discussed by the Congress.…”