National Security and Foreign Policy

Nothing is more important than the responsibility our nation’s leaders have to protect the national security of the American people.  While it is vital that we maintain a strong defense, we must also recognize when it is time to bring our men and women home to safety.

For more than a decade, our troops have served in Iraq and continue to serve in Afghanistan, our longest conflict in U.S. history. The death of Osama bin Laden, who had declared war on America and was directly responsible for the deaths of thousands of Americans, was a major accomplishment for our armed forces and intelligence services. And because of this, I believe President Obama’s announced strategy for troop withdrawal is a step in the right direction.

It is time to take the training wheels off in Afghanistan. I am hopeful that the President's strategy will both safely allow Afghanistan to take responsibility for their security, economic reconstruction and self-governance – and get our troops home safe and sound. 

You can be sure that I am also closely monitoring the developments in Iraq as the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) continues to advance militants and cause violence. President Obama has announced up to 300 military advisers would be sent to support Iraq against ISIS. We should continue to avoid sending combat troops back into Iraq.

It is also my promise to ensure that no veteran is left behind. Our armed forces serve with honor and it is our duty to provide the best care we can offer when they come home. To read more about my work for veterans, click here.

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