National Security

Moolenaar: "The legislation permanently extends the research and development tax credit that leading Michigan companies use to make innovative new products that are sold around the world. This will reduce the tax burden for Michigan businesses and create more jobs for Michigan residents.”

Moolenaar: “The United States is the leading producer of oil and natural gas and today’s legislation continues that progress. The bill passed today protects our electric grid from terrorism, cyberattacks, and weather events that could cause prolonged power outages. These reforms will benefit Michigan residents by helping to keep energy prices low for years to come.”

The legislation passed today will require the Obama Administration to collect the intelligence necessary to complete stringent refugee background checks in order to ensure terrorists are not using the refugee program to enter the United States. Defending the American people from threats abroad is the federal government’s primary responsibility and one I take very seriously in my role as a public servant. This legislation upholds our values as a compassionate nation and defends our citizens against a possible threat.

“This bill empowers our military overseas and provides for troops and their families here at home. Unfortunately, the president is vetoing the bill over an item that isn't even in it. He wants to take more money from hardworking taxpayers and give it to bureaucrats at the IRS and the EPA before signing a bill that provides for our national defense. That’s wrong and Democrats in the House and Senate should vote to override the president’s veto of this bipartisan legislation that protects America’s national security.”

Today, I join millions of Americans in remembering the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States. The victims were from around the nation and more than 90 countries. My thoughts and prayers go out to all who grieve on this day, and I give thanks for all of the courageous men and women who serve our communities as first-responders.

Tough economic sanctions worked and brought Iran to the negotiating table. Congress now has a critical role reviewing the terms of the agreement. Based on reports, it is alarming to hear that restrictions on weapons and ballistic missiles will be lifted in the near future, and Iran's nuclear program is being further enabled through increased technology. Iran sponsors terrorism around the world and should be prohibited from receiving arms or obtaining a nuclear weapon. This agreement makes permanent concessions to Iran with only temporary benefits in return and the deal falls short of the need for Iran to meet concrete, verifiable standards.