Cramer Criticizes Obama Administration, Praises Law Enforcement in Floor Speech on Dakota Access Pipeline Protest

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dec. 2, 2016

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer criticized the Obama Administration for improperly meddling in the Dakota Access Pipeline protest and praised law enforcement for protecting North Dakota citizens in a speech on floor of the House of Representatives Thursday night.

He also read into the Congressional Record a resolution by the North Dakota Veterans Coordinating Council condemning military veterans who participate in the pipeline protests.

“You can’t encourage illegal behavior and then wonder why there is violence,”  said Cramer in his criticism of the Obama Administration’s efforts to block the legally permitted pipeline project. “The rule of law matters.  We cannot allow lawless mobs to obstruct projects that have met all legal requirements to proceed.”

Cramer praised the work of law enforcement in protecting the citizens of North Dakota. “I am one of many North Dakotans who are tired of what once began as a peaceful protest and is now a full-fledged riot,” he said.  “It’s time for the bad actors, celebrities and political extremists to leave our state.”   

Watch the full speech here.

View the full speech transcript here.