Fischer Supports Continuing Resolution

Statement

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today voted against advancing the continuing resolution -- which includes $500 million to train and arm Syrian rebels -- but voted in favor of the overall measure:

"At a recent Armed Services Committee hearing, I explained my firm belief that Congress owes the American people a full, honest debate on the president's plan to destroy ISIL. Make no mistake, ISIL is a threat to our allies and a threat to our homeland. The president's request for funding to arm and train Syrian rebels is simply "step one' in what will likely be, at a minimum, a 3-5 year effort. General Martin Dempsey testified to me that it will take 8-12 months to train the rebels before they are fit for combat. In other words, there is a long road ahead.

"I strongly object to Congress heading home to campaign rather than staying and debating the president's full strategy. We were elected to do a job. That's why I voted against ending debate. At the same time, doing nothing in the face of a growing threat is simply not an option. It's important for Congress and the president to show the world that the United States will stand up and lead. Accordingly, I supported the final measure.

"The president's plan is not a silver bullet. He has promised the American people both swift action and the ultimate destruction of ISIL. It's clear that aggressive American airstrikes will be necessary. I believe the president should seek congressional authorization for a sustained air campaign to weaken ISIL forces, restrict their freedom of movement, and strike their economic lifelines wherever they exist."

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