WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of bills to aid Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan on Saturday, April 20.
“Today, I voted to send weapons to three democratic nations under attack or threat by our enemies. I understand that some will not support helping Ukraine, or even Israel, defend themselves against aggression, but at the end of the day, my vote came down to what I feel is the right thing to do.
“Around 250 years ago, there was a small country that found itself fighting an enemy that outmatched them in every way. They were brave, determined and relentless, but they still needed help from a European power to win. That small country was the United States, and that European power was France. Because of those beginnings and because we are now that shining light on a hill, I feel we have a moral obligation to now also help those countries who are fighting for their very existences.
“Many of us feel we have too many problems at home to be distracted abroad. And I do find it maddening that the Biden Administration will defend the borders of Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan – but not our own. However, two wrongs don’t make a right. I share that frustration and will continue the fight for border security. Ultimately, I’ve learned that the only way to take control of our borders is at the ballot box.
“Lastly, let me be clear about one thing: this bill is NOT about sending huge amounts of cash overseas. (In fact, I also voted in favor of an amendment from Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL) that would eliminate all non-military funding for Ukraine.) We are sending guns and bullets today, so we won’t have to send our sons and daughters tomorrow. Those arms are built in the United States by American workers, including $1.5 billion in Patriot air defense missiles and $500 million for anti-drone weapons made in Alabama. These funds will help kick-start our domestic production and refill our supplies as our adversaries in China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea try to export death and chaos around the globe.”
Media Release/Office of Congressman Robert Aderholt
