Press Releases

U.S. Representatives Seth Moulton, D-Mass., Stephanie Murphy, D-Fla., and Jimmy Panetta, D-Calif., the co-chairs of the recently-formed Democratic Caucus National Security Task Force, this week sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging his administration to submit the overdue, congressionally-mandated National Security Strategy. The letter was signed by 57 Members of Congress.

Under federal statute, within 150 days of taking office, a new president must provide Congress—and, by extension, the American public—with a report that sets forth “the national security strategy of the United States.” That deadline passed on June 19, 2017.

“We need a strong, smart, strategic approach to foreign policy that provides clear goals,” said Moulton. “Currently, Democrats and Republicans alike are saying that this administration has no national security strategy. It’s because they literally don’t. This letter demands that the administration follow the law and provide Congress and the American people with a national security strategy. We can’t have a strong American foreign policy without a plan.”

“Given the rapidly-changing threats to our nation, this administration must demonstrate it has a comprehensive strategy to protect the homeland and our nation’s interests abroad,” said Murphy. “A national security strategy provides a blueprint for meeting our national security challenges. Without this document, we’re essentially flying blind with no sense of priorities. I urge President Trump to submit his national security strategy as soon as possible so that we can work together more effectively in keeping America safe.”

“Without a National Security Strategy, our country’s credibility and accountability, both at home and abroad, is threatened,” said Panetta. “This administration is faltering on its obligation to provide clear and concise military objectives and guidance for our service members. The administration must set forth its strategy immediately.”

To read the full letter, click here.

###

The Democratic Caucus National Security Task Force was established in June 2017 by the House Democratic Caucus to support the creation, execution, and public messaging of national security policies that are smart, strategic, and strong.