Democratic Study Group on National Security

The Democratic Study Group on National Security was created at the beginning of 108th Congress by Representatives Steve Israel (D-NY), Adam Schiff (D-CA) and David Scott (D-GA). The Study Group explores the necessary components of a smart national security strategy against evolving threats. It holds regular meetings for the Democratic Caucus and brings in renowned speakers on a wide range of national security issues such as terrorism, military transformation, Iraq, homeland security, non-proliferation, Iran, Korea, the United Nations, and missile defense.

Past discussions include:

• Susan E. Rice, Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, discussed contemporary issues in Africa and how the current concerns on the continent affect U.S. national security.
• Thomas Ricks, Washington Post reporter and best-selling author, discussed the military operations in Iraq and the current strategies in place.
• Irshad Manji, best-selling author, journalist, activist, and lecturer, discussed the threat of radical Islam and role of Reform-minded Muslims in the countering terrorism.
• Bob Woodward, best-selling author and veteran Washington Post journalist, discussed the Bush administration’s motivations and handling of the Iraq war and the administration’s current position on Middle East security.
• Steve Simon, Hasib J. Sabbagh Senior Fellow for Middle Eastern studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, discussed his views on the military engagement in Iraq after the surge and the possibilities for new diplomatic initiatives throughout the region.
• Senator Evan Bayh, member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, discussed his vision for a tough and smart Democratic national security strategy.
• Mark Bowden, author of Black Hawk Down, discussed the history of the U.S. relationship with Iran.
• Andrew Natsios, former administrator of USAID, discussed the role of humanitarian assistance in national security.
• Dr. Andrew Krepinevich, Executive Director of the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments, discussed the components of a winning military strategy in Iraq.