International Leadership & Foreign Affairs
I support a comprehensive national security approach, fully integrating and resourcing our diplomatic, development, and defense capabilities. We must execute a national security strategy that counters violent religious extremism and anti-American sentiment, builds partnerships around the world, work closely with friends and allies, and advances programs to create a more just, peaceful, and stable world. This means policies that understand and respect other nations and encourages self-determination, democracy, human rights, gender equality, economic development, and much greater access to education, health care, and jobs. This also means an increased focus on promoting the American values of democracy and an economy that also respects people and cultures.
As Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have unique insights into today’s foremost national security issues throughout the Middle East, including the war in Afghanistan, as well as our larger efforts to stop the spread of violent extremist groups and their ideology around the globe. Understanding the need for a holistic approach to national security, I recognize the importance of poverty reduction, access to education, sustainable global markets, diplomatic engagement, and good governance to enable our pursuit of stable international partners.
Diplomacy
- Preventing Iran from acquiring or developing nuclear weapons: Supported the multilaterally negotiated Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action with Iran, has condemned the Iranian regime’s objectionable behavior, and taken note of the constructive voices in Iran that seek global integration.
- Combating harmful cuts to U.S. diplomatic engagement: I have fought against draconian, misguided cuts proposed in the President’s budget request to Congress, cosigned letters to Secretary Tillerson strongly condemning what can only be seen as an effort to weaken our ability to promote peace abroad.
- Enhancing Peace and Stability in Somalia: Co-led a letter requesting $87.7 million in Economic Support Funds to support the formation of legitimate, durable institutions in Somalia and has continued to work closely with the Treasury Department and community members to find ways to permit the legal transfer of remittances.
- Supporting Refugees: In addition to vocally speaking out against hateful rhetoric towards refugees, I have asked the President to increase the number of refugees who can come to the United States. I have also requested additional funding to help resettle refugees.
Development
- Co-Chair, Congressional Caucus on Effective Foreign Assistance: Adam serves as a co-founder and co-chair of a bipartisan working group focused on highlighting the work of development, aid, and relief organizations and engaged on improving efficacy and transparency
- Building Capacity, Promoting Stability: A strong proponent of organizations such as the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), Adam led a letter asking for $1 billion in funding for the MCC, which uses innovative and effective models to reduce poverty and building sustained economic growth.
- Strengthening Global Health: The United States is uniquely positioned to help strengthen healthcare systems in developing nations. Congressman Smith has aggressively pursued strong funding for programs which support International Family Planning, Maternal & Child Health, the Global Vaccine Initiative (GAVI), Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Vaccines for HIV and Malaria, Tuberculosis Funding, United Nations Population Fund, and Polio Eradication.
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“The immigration system in the United States is broken and needs to be reformed. Building unnecessary walls, attacking local law enforcement by threatening grant funding, demanding costly mass deportation, and damaging relationships with international partners is misguided and reprehensible. Instead, we must have a clear, humane and legal way for those who seek to come to our country to flee violence and instability, or seek new opportunities, to build a better life in the United States.
“In reinstating the Global Gag Rule as one of his first executive orders, President Donald Trump has undone years of progress. International family planning programs are very important for fostering manageable and healthy families around the world. By supporting international family planning efforts, we can help families around the world avoid extreme poverty, lack of access to health care, educational, and economic opportunities. Even without this step backwards, U.S.
“I voted in favor of H.Res. 11, although I have ongoing concerns about the resolution. At the end of the day, I fully support Israel. As one of our strongest allies, Israel has been under threat since its creation, and the multi-faceted relationship we share with the Israelis requires our steadfast support.
I want to serve my constituents in any way I can. Whether you need help with a federal agency, are trying to find out if federal grants are available for your project, or are considering applying to a service academy, my staff and I are accessible for those who need assistance.
“In nominating ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson for Secretary of State, the President-elect has chosen an individual whose company opposed efforts to sanction Russia while also receiving an award from Russian President Vladimir Putin. This nomination raises critical questions about the manner in which the President-elect intends to lead our nation.
“All Americans should be deeply concerned by the reports that Russian agencies have interfered with a U.S. election. As Speaker Ryan noted, ‘any foreign intervention in our elections is entirely unacceptable.’
“The first duty of the United States government is to safeguard the American people and the integrity of our free society from attacks by foreign adversaries. Cyberattacks on our political institutions are direct threats to their integrity and are just as menacing as attacks on our economic, physical, and military infrastructure.
“I have grave concerns about the judgment of Lt. General Michael Flynn. He has regularly engaged in the reckless public promotion of conspiracy theories that have no basis in fact, with disregard for the risks that giving credence to those theories could pose to the public. The National Security Adviser is responsible for filtering and assessing crucial information pertaining to the national defense. Someone who is so oblivious to the facts, or intentionally ignorant of them, should not be entrusted with policy decisions that affect the safety of the American people.
“General Mattis has served the United States tirelessly, with admirable distinction. However, the unusual circumstances of his nomination raise serious questions about fundamental principles of our Constitutional order. Civilian control of the military is not something to be casually cast aside.
“I extend our deepest sympathies to the people of the State of Israel on the passing of former President Shimon Peres, a visionary leader who dedicated himself to Israel and the cause of peace.
“With so many conflicts around the globe, we can best honor President Peres by striving to pursue his vision for a more just, stable, and peaceful world. May his memory be a blessing to his family, the people of the State of Israel, and people from all countries.”
Our veterans have served this nation bravely and heroically. We owe these men and women an enormous debt of gratitude and respect. On August 31, 2016, my office had the honor of hosting our first Veterans History Project (VHP) event at the Nisei Veterans Center in Seattle. The VHP’s mission is to collect, preserve, and make accessible the personal accounts of American veterans so that future generations may hear directly from former servicemembers and better understand their unique stories, and selfless sacrifice.