Political Quotes

“The gentleman didn't raise an objection to understanding how much they are contributing. He implies he already knows. The world doesn't know, and I certainly don't get access to all of that information. I do know they are paying for their own defense, and some of them quite a lot. I do know that they have helped in the war in Ukraine, and they have certainly taken on a heavy burden with refugees. All of that is different in different places around the world. Our allies stating how much they contribute certainly helps us make policy. I hope all my colleagues will see through this as an attempt to avoid accountability for our allies. We shouldn't underappreciate them, but we shouldn't cover for them either. We should hold them accountable, and the American people should know they are stepping up, they are doing really well. You can state it in percentage of GDP. That is the obligation, 2 percent of their GDP, and yet the biggest countries with the biggest resources with very little debt, I might add, aren't paying their defense. In our case, we are borrowing from China to defend our country and, frankly, to defend lots of them and people that aren't even part of our NATO alliance. It is important that we pass this and we study it. Whether this amendment passes or not, we need to know it, and we need to hold them accountable for their failure to honor their obligations. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR.…”