The Public Record
Lindsey Olin Graham is an American politician serving as the senior United States senator from South Carolina since 2003. A member of the Republican Party, Graham has been a prominent figure in national politics, known for his work on issues such as national security, foreign policy, and judicial appointments. He has played a key role in various legislative efforts and has been an outspoken advocate for military support to Ukraine in recent years.
It is in America's national security interest to obtain influence on every front possible in this strategically consequential region--from Kurdistan to Arab Spring countries such as Libya and most certainly in Syria when the ruling tyrant…
Well, for the committee's information, and I'm sure the members know this, that this year we're going to be 30 percent below the fiscal year 2016 number for international disaster assistance.
Isn't it cheaper and more effective to engage now proactively to fix what needs to be fixed
Investing today in stability is more cost-effective than investing later in crisis management and dealing with the violent extremism that conflict creates and attracts.
In pulling our troops out of Iraq, where we have sacrificed so much, without a comprehensive strategy to fill the vacuum of influence that is left, we would suffer a monumental loss of face.
You made an enormous difference today, and you will look back on this hearing, I hope, and say, 'That's when it began to change.'
The whole approach is to leverage better outcomes and not just to help people with food, shelter, water, and clothing.
The international community should seek inspiration from the success of the Marshall Plan after World War II.
So I want the committee to know that people in Syria are trapped. There is no place to go.
The integration of Europe, the very idea of European unity, is at risk here.
In the op-ed piece I referenced, Bono suggested that now is the time to think big. I could not agree more.
The goal is for people to stay at home and not come here, not go to Europe, but stay in Syria.
I am here to urge action by the international community in response to both the refugee crisis and the rise of violent extremism.
I'm going to work with Senator Leahy and the members of this subcommittee to put together an emergency relief package.
I think we have to recognize we have an emergency on our hands, and then we have to come up with a long-term strategy.
I think Ted would be well served to reach out to his colleagues. The more support he gets from across the spectrum of the Republican Party, the more viable alternative it becomes to Trump.
Total spending for International Affairs has dropped 12 percent since fiscal year 2010 when adjusted for inflation.
We believe that strategic investments in development and diplomacy, alongside a strong defense, are critical to keeping America safe.
We urge you to consider the growing threats facing the United States and the need for a strong International Affairs Budget.
Politicians like Lindsey Graham
