John P. Sarbanes

04/22/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/22/2024 09:29

Sarbanes Statement on House Passage of National Security Supplemental

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman John Sarbanes (MD-03) released the following statement after voting for a bipartisan package of four bills that will strengthen U.S. national security; support Israel, Ukraine and our allies in the Indo-Pacific; and provide critical humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians in Gaza as well as other civilians in harm's way around the world.

"For months, I have joined my Democratic colleagues and the Biden Administration in calling for the swift passage of bipartisan legislation to uphold our commitments to international security, humanitarianism and democracy."

"The four bills passed today demonstrate the United States' continued global leadership in this critical moment and strengthen our national security here at home. Together, this package ensures Israel has the resources to defend itself following the horrific October 7th attacks, strengthens regional security amid recent Iranian aggression, and provides long-needed assistance to support Ukraine's fight for freedom and democracy in the war against Russia. Critically, the legislation also delivers more than $9 billion in humanitarian assistance to address the dire situations facing Palestinian civilians in Gaza and other vulnerable populations in conflict zones. I am also glad that this package includes the Energy and Commerce Committee's legislation to protect Americans' sensitive data from foreign adversaries, provides support for our allies in the Indo-Pacific and combats rising hate crimes by providing increased funding for the National Security Grant Program."

"History judges us by the actions we take in moments of great consequence. I am glad that today a bipartisan majority of the House of Representatives voted to stand with our allies and humanitarian causes, and I hope the Senate will now take expedient action to deliver this legislation to President Biden's desk."

More information about the four bills in this package can be found here: H.R. 8034(link is external), H.R. 8035(link is external), H.R. 8036(link is external), H.R. 8308(link is external).

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