WASHINGTON, D.C. — Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) took to the House Floor to affirm Democrats' commitment to passing a national security package that supports America’s allies, safeguards civilian lives, and defends democracy. Below is a transcript of her remarks:
“John Gardner said, ‘History never looks like history when you are living through it.’ But there is no doubt that today’s votes in the House of Representatives will reverberate through history — will be felt for generations to come.
“We have learned that when figures like Vladimir Putin emerge, we will not find peace through appeasement.
“As caretakers of the world’s most powerful republic, we cannot look away when the world looks to us to lead the defense of democracy. We cannot look away — because tyranny is not just emanating from Moscow.
“The same extremism that has fueled the Russian attack on the Ukrainian people has found countenance here in the People’s House. In voting yes today, we can rebuke all those who choose to side with the enemies of freedom.
“As we combat tyrants, we also cannot turn away from the innocent victims of war and famine. The suffering people of Gaza, Sudan, Haiti, Chad, and Armenia. The humanitarian aid in this package is vital to relieving their pain, saving their lives, and securing their children’s future.
“As we witness so much destruction and starvation — as we attempt to comprehend the intertwined horrors of the October 7th attack on Israel and the devastating toll on innocent civilians in Gaza, I cannot see a path to peace that does not provide security and sovereignty to both Israelis and Palestinians. A peace rooted in justice and our common humanity.
“It is our hope that the votes we take today are a start.
“But we are not simply living through history. We are shaping it. We have the opportunity today to shape a future that is more just, more equitable.
“The bills before us today are not perfect. They consider very complex and painful issues. But they are a critical step forward, and I urge my colleagues to join me in taking it.”
To watch the full speech, click HERE.
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