Dear Mr. David: Thank you for contacting me in regard to the ongoing conflict in Iraq involving the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, or ISIS. It is a privilege to serve you in Congress and I value your input. All Americans should be gravely concerned by the turn of events in Iraq. What once had the potential to be a secular democratic foothold in a vital region has spiraled into chaos and bloodshed. In the near term, I am most concerned about the security of the thousands of dedicated Americans working in Iraq. The President must make their safety his first concern. In the longer term, it is clear that we need a new strategy in Iraq and across the Middle East. The President had hoped that as America stepped back from the world, other responsible actors would step forward to provide stability. That hasnt worked. It isnt going to work. Our vacillation and inaction in Syira, abandonment of Iraq, politically driven withdrawal from Afghanistan, and senseless cuts to national security resources has allowed the resurrection of a transnational terrorist threat. These extremists now have unprecedented wealth, technology, and a safe haven from which to launch attacks on the United States. They must be stopped. The White House has a history of considering all options while choosing none. There are no quick fix solutions to this crisis and I will not support a one shot strike that looks good for the cameras but has no enduring effect. What is needed here is a new strategy for our regional engagement, adequate resourcing of our national security enterprise, and renewed American leadership. The President should also ask himself if his White House National Security team is equal to the crisis at hand. I dont believe they are. Please be assured that I am closely monitoring the situation in in Iraq and the surrounding region. As the Chairman of the House Committee on Armed Services, I take very seriously our prerogative to provide for the common defense. You can be certain that, should any legislation pertaining to ISIS reach the House floor for a vote, I will be sure to keep your sentiments in mind. Sincerely, Howard P. Buck McKeon Member of Congress
Posted on: Mon, 28 Jul 2014 16:36:06 +0000
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