The Timing of Secretary Rick Perry's Resignation

Floor Speech

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Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise to express deep concern about the timing of Secretary Rick Perry's resignation, and his simultaneous refusal to provide key information on his many trips to Ukraine, more than any other Cabinet member. He has played a central role in U.S.- Ukraine relations throughout the Trump Presidency.

Thus far, Secretary Perry has refused to cooperate with lawful subpoenas issued to him by the Intelligence Committee and other committees of this Congress. As chair of the Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies Subcommittee of the Committee on Appropriations, while I have had a productive relationship with Secretary Perry in the past, from strengthening our National Laboratories, to supporting the growing range of energy solutions, I feel his recent behavior raises serious questions.

Madam Speaker, American taxpayers have a right to know what Secretary Perry was doing on his frequent travel to Ukraine as a public servant beholden to the public trust. Americans have a right to know what he observed, who he was meeting with, and who was benefiting from the contacts and deals he was making.

The Constitution entrusts the House of Representatives with holding the executive branch accountable. That is what we must do.

As U.S. foreign policy in Ukraine has been sidelined in favor of President Trump's personal and political agenda and abuse of power, Secretary Perry should do what is right, and immediately comply with the House's investigation. America deserves nothing less.

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