Democrats speak on Kerry's amendment to cut intelligence spending:
In this episode, we see Democratic senators admonishing Kerry for his reckless cuts, that endanger the national security. Here again we see a position out on the fringe, with Kerry in the minority of a 75-20 vote. (3 republicans voted for this amendment one of whom was Jumpin Jim Jeffords, no longer a Republican (never was really) One is no longer a senator, and the other is Grassley from IA, No doubt another dude that would do a Gephart in a presidential primary.)
“Congress has worked in close partnership with the intelligence community to refine the intelligence budget without detrimentally affecting this country’s national security. This reduction, as proposed in this amendment, would result in a termination of programs and activities that are essential to the security of this Nation.” (Sen. Daniel Inouye [D-HI], Congressional Record, 2/10/94, pp. S1330-S1332)
Kerry’s Amendment Would “Close Our Eyes And Ears” To Gathering Threats. “We have to stay ready. It makes no sense for us to close our eyes and ears to developments around the world which could ultimately save U.S. lives and resources.” (Sen. Dennis DeConcini [D-AZ], Congressional Record, 2/10/94, p. S1360)
Kerry’s Proposed Cut “Would Severely Hamper” Intelligence Efforts. “Madam President, the intelligence budget has already been cut by almost 18 percent over the past 2 years. An additional reduction of $1 billion would severely hamper the intelligence community’s ability to provide decision makers and policymakers with information on matters of vital concern to this country.” (Sen. Daniel Inouye [D-HI], Congressional Record, 2/10/94, pp. S1330-S1332)
Cuts Ignore Threats Of North Korean Proliferation And Terrorism. “These issues include nuclear proliferation by North Korea – this has been on the front pages for the past 3 or 4 months – peacekeeping efforts in Bosnia and Somalia, as well as terrorist threats against American citizens and property.” (Sen. Daniel Inouye [D-HI], Congressional Record, 2/10/94, pp. S1330-S1332)
Cuts Would “Blind” Military Pilots. “At a time like this, is it prudent to reduce funds for the very intelligence programs which we need to identify these targets? This amendment would do that. It would blind our pilots.” (Sen. Daniel Inouye [D-HI], Congressional Record, 2/10/94, pp. S1330-S1332)
75 Senators, Including Sen. Ted Kennedy, Voted Against Kerry’s Amendment. (Amdt. To H.R. 3759, CQ Vote #39: Rejected 20-75: R 3-37; D 17-38, 2/10/94, Kerry Voted Yea; Kennedy Voted Nay) |
