On the recordJanuary 20, 2015
This morning most Americans woke up to the news that ISIS was holding two citizens of the nation-state of Japan and, in the holding of those citizens, threatening to kill them, asked Japan to give $200 million. Mr. Speaker, does that sound like an organization that is dedicated and committed to principles however much we disagree with them, or does it sound like a group of thugs who are willing to do anything to gain money to promote their evil and dastardly acts? The very existence of ISIS and others is not a reflection on Islam. Over the weekend, we have seen so many that have expressed opposition to these terrible acts. That is why it is so important, as we listen to the President's State of the Union, that the Congress, although with different opinions, agree to work on behalf of what is good for all of America, both building the economy but fighting against the war on terror, not only with weapons but with educating about democracy and principles and equality and trying to win the hearts and minds. Mr. Speaker, we have a lot of work to do. ____________________
