U.S. Representative Ken Calvert (R-Corona) stated, "President Biden’s failure of leadership with Iran, China, and Russia, does not shrink the responsibility of this Congress to strengthen [the nation’s] defense" following the release of security supplemental bills aimed at bolstering the defense of U.S. allies and partners worldwide.
"America's national security sits at a dangerous precipice that requires clear-eyed decisions about what actions will best protect the American people and our allies," said Calvert. "President Biden's failure of leadership with Iran, China, and Russia, does not shrink the responsibility of this Congress to strengthen our defense."
Calvert further commented that these legislative measures are particularly pertinent as Israel grapples with "direct attacks and an existential threat from Iran," while Ukraine is embroiled in a conflict with Russia. He commended House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) for their role in introducing these bills.
According to the official announcement, the released bills include the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, the Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, and the Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act. The Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act aims to replenish Israel’s Iron Dome and David’s Sling systems, enhance support for American military operations, and provide weaponry. Meanwhile, the Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act is designed to arm Ukraine and bolster U.S. initiatives in that region. Lastly, the Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act seeks to increase protection for Taiwan amidst escalating military provocations from Mainland China around the island while addressing plans by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to gain control over the Indo-Pacific region.
Representative Calvert is a member of the Republican Party who represents California's 41st Congressional District. A lifelong resident of Riverside County, he has owned a small business for nearly two decades according to his congressional website biography. Calvert holds a bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University (SDSU) and is among the longest-serving members of the U.S. House of Representatives.