Congresswoman Elaine Luria Issues Statement on the Insurrection Act Amendment Vote

Statement

Following yesterday's vote on the Insurrection Act Amendment, Congresswoman Elaine Luria offered the statement below. This comes after the House voted 215 to 190 to approve changes to the Insurrection Act as part of an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act.

"I strongly disagree with President Trump's deployment of National Guard troops and other federal law enforcement officials against peaceful protestors across the country and my vote against this amendment should in no way be construed to imply that I support the actions of this Administration. As a veteran myself, I am appalled by the use of our military against our own citizens and I condemn President Trump's mishandling of constitutionally protected assemblies."

"However, President Trump did not use the Insurrection Act to take these actions, so this amendment does not solve the pressing problem at hand. I respect the Office of the Presidency too much to let the current occupant jeopardize my commitment to maintaining the essential checks and balances that are the foundation of our system."

"When limiting Presidential powers, Congress should consider these provisions for more than ten minutes of debate. We would be wise to keep in mind that we are not simply limiting the authority of one misguided president, but are also restricting the authority of those who will serve as President following his electoral defeat."

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