Foreign Affairs
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While much of the power to conduct foreign affairs is given to the president by the Constitution, there are still ways Congress is able to help shape the scope of the president’s action. I believe it is important to use all of the tools we have at our disposal to ensure that the world remains a safe place and that our citizens are protected from harm.
From the ongoing civil war in Syria, the revolution in Egypt, to the acts of Russian aggression in the sovereign country of Ukraine and our campaign against ISIL, the world has become an increasingly dangerous place. While much of the power to conduct foreign affairs is given to the president by the Constitution, there are still ways Congress is able to help shape the scope of the president’s action.
For example, Congress maintains the purse strings over our defense and foreign aid. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand how our foreign aid budget is utilized to support American values across the world. From humanitarian emergency assistance to food aid, much of the work done by America and its citizens internationally is crucial to bringing developing countries out of poverty and promoting long-term development.
Additionally, through the appropriations process, Congress is able to ensure that funding goes to our allies like Israel and is limited or conditioned to those countries with whom we are at odds. I believe it is important to use all of the tools we have at our disposal to ensure that the world remains a safe place and that our citizens are protected from harm.