Central ND News

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) has expressed his support for the National Security Act, 2024, after it passed the Senate by a vote of 70 to 29. The bill aims to counter aggression from Russia, Iran, and China while strengthening America's own defenses.

In a statement, Senator Cramer highlighted the importance of the legislation in pushing back against threats. He also mentioned his conversation with former President Donald Trump, stating, "In conversations with President Trump and my colleagues, it is clear there could be a path forward if this aid came in the form of loans and targeted on lethal military aid rather than humanitarian assistance."

Senator Cramer acknowledged that the bill was not perfect but emphasized the need to move forward. He expressed disappointment with the poor process in the Senate, including the lack of amendments allowed. Despite his efforts to propose changes, such as stripping non-lethal aid and restarting approvals of LNG export terminals, they were ultimately blocked.

However, Senator Cramer remained optimistic, stating, "The perfect cannot be the enemy of the good. By passing this bill, it moves this critical support forward, but gives the House the opportunity to make it better."

Since the release of the legislative text, Senator Cramer introduced an amendment to prevent the use of funds in the supplemental from facilitating or implementing a pause on the permitting of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) exports. He also cosponsored Senator Tom Cotton's (R-AR) amendment, which aimed to remove non-military-related aid for Ukraine and Gaza from the national security supplemental bill.

The passage of the National Security Act is seen as a significant step in addressing global security concerns. It sets the stage for further discussions and improvements in the House, as Senator Cramer and others work towards a more effective and impactful legislation.

The support from Senator Cramer and his colleagues reflects a united effort to promote freedom, support allies, and counter communist authoritarianism. The National Security Act, though imperfect, demonstrates a commitment to enhancing national security and safeguarding American interests in an increasingly complex global landscape.