Rep. Paul Gosar: “While the President finally seems to be taking the threat of ISIS more seriously, I still have concerns and questions about the extent of the President’s proposed strategies including training and equipping Syrian forces. I have and will continue to support targeted air strikes against ISIS and call on the President to work with Congress on executing a plan moving forward to destroy this enemy. But the President must stop being a reactive leader driven by his political ideology which has prevented him from facing the realities of the challenges facing the middle east.”
Rep. Matt Salmon: “The President’s speech to Americans tonight was rhetorically strong and firm. Unfortunately, his actions as our Commander in Chief have been anything but. While the President did articulate a strategy to eliminate ISIS and the Islamic terrorists, his plan will only succeed if he follows through and commits to do what it takes to defeat those who pose a threat to the civilized world. Following through on his plan will require making the tough decisions necessary, without regard for what is politically popular or upsetting to his base. Now that the President has finally acknowledged that ISIS is more than a ‘junior varsity team,’ I strongly urge him to seek approval from Congress in order to convince the world that America and her leaders are united to win this fight. If he does this, and stands firm for the long haul, I stand ready to support the plan he articulated tonight.”
Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick: “Our nation has the strongest defense and intelligence operations in the world, and they must be unleashed on ISIL. I am in favor of U.S. airstrikes supporting our partner forces on the ground and building a broad coalition to destroy ISIL. While I remain wary of deploying U.S. ground troops, I call on the president and top military strategists to consult with Congress if military escalation becomes necessary.”
Rep. Kyrsten Sinema: “I’ve listened carefully to the President’s remarks, and share the concerns of the American people. I am greatly disturbed by the horrendous actions of these terrorists. They pose a significant threat to regional stability, our allies, and our country. The US and the international community should support the Iraqi and Kurdish efforts to protect innocent civilians and defeat ISIS.
“Tomorrow I will receive a classified briefing on the developments in the region. I expect to hear greater detail about the administration’s strategy and military justification for broader US involvement. Once I have been briefed by national security officials I intend to thoughtfully evaluate whether the proposed action and legislation expected on the floor next week will protect and advance America’s national security.”
“I don’t rush to judgment or make rash decisions. I will carefully review the information provided by our military experts, listen to constituents, and make a decision once I am certain I have the facts. As always the security of the American people must come first.”
Rep. Raul Grijalva: “Congress must weigh in when it comes to confronting ISIL through military action. The voices of the American people must be heard during a full and robust debate in Congress on the use of military force. Speaker Boehner should put legislation authorizing military action on the floor of the House of Representatives before Congress leaves for the upcoming district work period.”