Foreign Affairs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, President Biden announced a Presidential Delegation to the Republic of the Philippines led by the Second Gentleman of the United States Douglas Emhoff to attend the Inauguration of President-elect Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, Jr. Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), Co-chair of the U.S.-Philippines Friendship Caucus and the only Member of Congress of Filipino ancestry currently serving, was selected to join the Second Gentleman and other U.S. government officials as a member of the Presidential Delegation.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after President Biden announced a U.S. ban on importing Russian energy in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine: “Ever since Vladimir Putin launched his unprovoked invasion on Ukraine, President Biden promised that Russia would face crushing sanctions, and we would leave Russia more isolated economically and diplomatically from the world. Today’s announcement is another example of President Biden following through on that promise. Congress is also expected to pass bipartisan legislation this week to further punish Russia beyond the scope of what the president can do via executive order, and I look forward to supporting that bill.

NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement: “Today, President Biden made clear that the United States, along with the rest of the G7, our NATO partners and other allies, will make sure Russia pays a steep economic price through another set of devastating sanctions. Just earlier today, the Russian stock market took a massive plunge and the ruble has already hit a . . .

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 1605 – the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022: “The National Defense Authorization Act will keep America safe and support our servicemembers and their families. This legislation includes critical investments in shipbuilding which is a huge win for Hampton Roads. I am also encouraged by the bill’s inclusion of a well-deserved pay increase for our servicemembers as well as a guarantee of paid parental and bereavement leave.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement on the passing of former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell: “Colin Powell was a patriot and dedicated his life to serving the United States both in uniform and as a civilian. Over the course of his historic life and career, he exemplified the temperament and leadership that should be the model for all Americans. He treated everyone with dignity and respect, and never put politics before his devotion to our country. I send my condolences to his family and loved ones

NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement on the situation in Afghanistan: “20 years ago, the United States entered Afghanistan to destroy the forces responsible for the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001. We largely finished that work when the Obama-Biden Administration killed Osama Bin Laden and degraded al Qaeda. Our servicemembers have been placed in harm’s way for the last 20 years in America’s longest war. Our nation has spent billions of dollars to train the Afghan military and provide resources to the Afghan government to prevent the Taliban from regaining control. It is now undeniably clear that President Biden is correct when he asserts that the events of the last few days were inevitable.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 256 – To repeal the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002: "Back in 2002, I voted against going to war in Iraq. Today, I voted to finally repeal the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) Against Iraq Resolution of 2002, a bipartisan effort led by Congresswoman Barbara Lee. The Constitution grants sole power to Congress to declare war, not the Executive Branch. Over the last two decades, previous Presidents have used the 2002 AUMF to launch military strikes without Congressional consultation or authorization.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott issued the following statement on his vote in favor of H.R. 335, a bill to provide for an exception to a limitation against appointment of persons as Secretary of Defense within seven years of relief from active duty as a regular commissioned officer of the Armed Forces. Specifically, the legislation would allow retired General Lloyd Austin III to serve as Secretary of Defense if confirmed by the United States Senate. “Under President Obama, General Austin oversaw operations against the Islamic State (ISIS) and the withdrawal of U.S. combat forces in Iraq. He has a distinguished military career with the Army and has a firm commitment to civilian leadership within the military.