Issue Position: National Security

Issue Position

The main responsibility expressly outlined for the federal government in the Constitution is providing for national defense. Congress faces no greater duty than ensuring that members of our armed forces have the training, equipment, and funding necessary to protect citizens of the United States and our interests abroad.

After September 11th, it is apparent that our national security is dependent not only on protection from other countries, but also from terrorists who respect no national borders. Congressman McHenry supports global efforts to track down and eliminate terrorists. Unless faced with strong opposition, countries such as North Korea and Iran will sell nuclear technology to terrorists.

While he was not in Congress at the time the decisions were made to invade Afghanistan and Iraq, Patrick McHenry has consistently voted to provide our troops with the tools and support they need, including a 3.9% pay increase. The surge in Iraq has reduced violence considerably and now Iraqis are taking over more and more responsibility for their country. This will enable the United States to bring our combat troops home with honor and victory. Afghanistan remains an important work in progress. Allowing Afghanistan to once again become a terrorist sanctuary is not option.

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