Political Quotes

“I rise tonight to talk about the matter that is before us, which is the National Defense Authorization Act. I don't think we have to make a fulsome argument tonight that it is very important we pass this authorization act for the fundamental purpose of making sure we can, at a minimum, complete action in the very near future on authorizing a whole range of programs that keep our people safe and ensure our national security. I am confident we will do that, but that is vitally important. I rise tonight to talk about one aspect of that challenge--and, again, it is just one part of our national security interest--relating specifically to what has been happening in Afghanistan over the last decade, and particularly to women and girls in Afghanistan. The amendment I have introduced and will be speaking on behalf of tonight is amendment No. 2172, which regards the security of Afghan women and girls. For the past 12 years, United States servicemembers have been deployed in Afghanistan fighting the insurgency there. Their sacrifice--the sacrifices of our own people--have created a space for Afghan democracy to take root and for a civil society to develop. It is imperative as we draw down U.S. combat troops in Afghanistan we remain focused on the United States long-term strategic interest in the region. It is in the United States national security interest for Afghanistan to remain stable, secure, and democratic.…”