Oregon Lawmakers React to U.S. Airstrikes on Iran
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Oregon lawmakers responded Sunday to recent U.S. airstrikes in Iran, offering a range of reactions that reflect the state’s political diversity.
Some Democratic leaders expressed concern over the potential for escalating conflict, calling for increased diplomatic efforts and congressional oversight.
Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers emphasized national security and supported the administration’s actions.
Congressman Cliff Bentz (R) - Oregon
WASHINGTON, D.C.– On June 22nd, using B2 bombers, 30 tomahawk missiles, and six 30,000 pound “Bunker Busting” bombs, the United States attacked three nuclear sites in Iran. The reason for the attack was to prevent Iran, a country hostile to the United States, Israel, and peace in the Middle East, from using the enriched uranium it had produced at those sites to construct an atomic bomb.
Said Congressman Cliff Bentz (OR-02): “I support President Trump’s decision to use our military to damage and hopefully destroy Iran’s immediate capability to produce nuclear weapons. To quote my fellow Congressman Dan Crenshaw, ‘The regime that’s spent decades chanting “death to America” just got the message: you don’t threaten the United States or our allies without consequences.’
Unless Iran immediately surrenders which is highly unlikely, this is not the end of this crisis. Therefore, every American must be vigilant and report to authorities any activity that even hints at terrorist activity. I thank the incredibly brave men and women that carried out this mission, and I pray for those currently stationed in the middle east protecting us from those who may at any time retaliate.”
Rep. Janelle Bynum (D) - Oregon
"Let me be clear: Oregonians are my first priority, and they've told me loud and clear we need checks and balances and no more foreign wars.
"A state sponsor of terror, Iran can never posses nuclear weapons, and the hope is that these strikes bring Iran back to the negotiating table to work towards a diplomatic solution in the region.
"As members of Congress, the constitutional authority to make these types of decisions lies with us. As things progress, we need to be properly briefed and informed so we can deliberate on behalf of the people.
"My prayers are with the brave service members and their families, and those who remain in harm's way. They are someone's someone, and we can never forget that."
Senator Jeff Merkley (D) - Oregon
Another Republican President has taken us into another Middle East war, despite Trump claiming to be a President who would choose peace.
And has done so in violation of the Constitution—which requires Congressional authorization for war.
All to accomplish a mission—disabling Iran's nuclear program—that Netanyahu stated Israel can achieve without U.S. assistance.
A wrong decision on all counts.
Senator Ron Wyden (D) - Oregon
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., released the following statement in response to Donald Trump ordering airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities:
“Keeping a nuclear weapon out of Iran’s hands and securing Israel’s democratic future has always been crucial to America’s national interest. However, Donald Trump’s reckless attack on Iran without congressional authorization has raised the risks that every U.S. servicemember in the Middle East will be a target for retaliation. As senior senator on the Intelligence Committee I’ll be pushing the Trump administration for answers on what plan, if any, it has to prevent an escalation of violence,” Wyden said.
“I heard loud and clear at four town halls in eastern Oregon and the Columbia Gorge this past weekend that Oregonians do not want U.S. troops to be drawn into another foreign war. Just as I opposed George W. Bush’s Iraq War, I reject the idea that sacrificing more American lives in the Middle East will make our country safer.”
