WASHINGTON D.C. – Congresswoman Jackie Walorski (IN-02), member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after hearing President Obama’s address to the nation on the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL):
“While I agree with the president on the destruction of ISIL, there are many questions that have been left unanswered. His message was an ‘about face’ from the presidents’ previous comments about the growing threat of terrorism. In fact, the lack of leadership from the administration has led to a foreign policy vacuum which groups like ISIL have filled. I firmly believe that Congress must have a say in any major decision of war and peace because the American people must have a voice. That’s why I’ll be participating in a classified briefing tomorrow morning to gather more information and going back to my district to hear from Hoosiers. I’m also supporting a measure to revoke U.S. citizens’ passports that are affiliated with foreign terrorist organizations. Traitors who have turned against America and joined the ranks of the terrorist army like ISIL should not be permitted to return to the United States to potentially inflict harm at home. I remain committed to the defense of this nation and believe that Congressional oversight of the president’s decisions are crucial.”
U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly issued the following statement after President Obama addressed the nation regarding the threat of ISIS and plans for U.S. military action to combat the violent extremist group.
“ISIS is an extremely violent group that poses an ongoing, serious threat to the Middle East, the U.S., and our allies around the world. I support ongoing and future airstrikes against ISIS in Iraq, and I support the President’s new proposal for airstrikes in Syria.”
“The U.S. is not alone in the fight against ISIS. They are a threat to us all, without regard for international borders or the rule of law. I agree with the president that it is important to engage our allies around the world and especially in the Middle East, but we must act quickly. Among all our partners in this fight, none is more critical right now than the Iraqi government in Baghdad. It is essential to addressing the threat of ISIS that Iraq’s leadership send a strong message of inclusion to Iraq’s religious and ethnic minorities.”
“I believe that President Obama has existing authority to take the actions he outlined. I do, however, think that that the President’s ability to respond forcefully and effectively to protect American interests would be strengthened by seeking authorization from Congress.”
