Rep. Ruben Gallego Statement on Secretary Tillerson's Refusal to Access Anti-Propaganda Funds

Statement

Rep. Ruben Gallego (AZ-07) issued the following statement on the Administration's refusal to use Congressionally-appropriated funds for federal anti-propaganda programs.

"Secretary Tillerson's unwillingness to use $80 million in appropriated funds to combat Islamic terrorist, Iranian, and Russian propaganda is deeply irresponsible. The Global Engagement Center is a critical tool in our arsenal as we attempt to stop the flow of young recruits to terrorist activity and inoculate populations against the scourge of Putinist lies. There is no good reason for the Trump Administration to hobble an important part of the State Department's efforts to stop terrorism and propaganda.

This sop to Moscow comes at the same time as President Putin's forced reduction of 755 personnel from the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Russia. To date, we have neither seen nor heard objection to this action from President Trump, Secretary Tillerson, or any other senior Administration official. It is time for this Administration to either stand up to Vladimir Putin or reveal why it's so important to cave to all of his demands.

To address this Administration's erratic and unsteady behavior, I will continue to work with colleagues in Congress to blunt and frustrate the President's attempts to weaken our country's defenses, foreign policy, institutions, and commitment to the rule of law. As a proud American, Marine, and public servant, I know that I will do my duty even if others shirk theirs."

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