Idaho National Guard Returns

On June 11, I had the opportunity to drive down to Twin Falls after work to thank several members of the Idaho National Guard.

Earlier this month, 440 of our Idaho National Guardsmen volunteered to travel to Washington D.C. to stand guard over our Nation’s monuments, buildings, and property. The brave men and women of the Idaho National Guard answered the call when President Trump requested their help.

They executed their mission successfully, and all returned home safe. I am thankful for our Idaho National Guard and for all the hard work they put in.

Bring Our Troops Home

I am a strong supporter of Bring our Troops home mission. For several years I have talked with Idaho Veterans and leaders in the Community. I believe our men and women of the Idaho National Guard shouldn’t be deployed overseas without declaring a formal declaration of war by congress as referenced in Article 1 of the U.S. Constitution. Many agree with this statement, citizens , politicians, and veterans.

President Trump said, “it’s time for us to get out of these ridiculous endless wars, many of them tribal, and bring our soldiers home.”

Our Lieutenant Governor Janice McGeachin has said, “I support our troops. I salute their commitment and heroism. What I cannot support are unconstitutional, undeclared wars that force our troops to fight and die in foreign lands. Congress has a duty and obligation to decide when war is necessary and when it’s not, but they have refused to declare war or to exercise responsible oversight over use of our military. To abdicate this vital responsibility to the executive branch is a dereliction of duty.”

Congresswomen Tulsi Gabbard and Iraq war veteran has also said, “its so critical that we honor their service, that we honor their great sacrifice, by making sure that they are only sent on missions that serve the interests of the American people, that keep us safe, and that we end these regime change wars that have proven so costly in so many ways.”.

According to Paw Research Center majority of U.S. Veterans said the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were not worth fighting. I believe Congress didn’t do their job to evaluate the situation and let the executive branch take control of our Idaho National Guardsman without following Article 1 of the U.S. Constitution.

I strongly support The Bring our Troops home mission that Idaho Veteran Sergeant Dan Mcknight started. Many states are in the process of passing legislation, in Idaho its called Defend the Guard. As senator I would support Defend the Guard and continue to support our Idaho National Guard and Idaho veterans.