Political Quotes

“I want to make clear that I also worry about the influence of Chinese entities, but this amendment is not the answer. This amendment could have far-reaching, unintended consequences that would affect our Agencies' ability to fulfill their missions and serve people. If this amendment passed, the VA could face challenges in obtaining products for essential mission needs, like pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and IT. This amendment could negatively impact the procurement of meat for the school meals programs. For example, Smithfield is owned by a Chinese company. This amendment would actually prohibit the USDA from purchasing hogs from any U.S.-based farmers owned by Smithfield. Is that what we want? It could also prevent Americans from understanding the security challenges related to Chinese-made drones because this amendment would mean the FAA would no longer be able to purchase drones made by Chinese entities to conduct critical counter-UAS research, testing analysis, or training. We should have more time to carefully consider the impact of this amendment and the serious, unintended consequences it could have before adding it to this legislation. I urge a ``no'' vote. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Missouri.”