Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement marking Memorial Day: “As we mark Memorial Day, let us join together to give thanks to the servicemen and servicewomen that have sacrificed for our country. As we honor their courage, we must reflect on the ideals for which they served and rededicate ourselves to upholding these quintessential American values. “In recognizing those who have bravely served our country, we must acknowledge the many challenges facing veter... Read more

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement after American forces launched airstrikes against a Syrian government-controlled airfield, in response to the horrific chemical weapon attack that took place earlier this week: “Hundreds of thousands of innocent Syrians have been killed and millions more displaced over the last few years. This week’s chemical weapon attack perpetrated by the Assad regime is a horrific continuation of this violence and a crime against humanity.... Read more

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement in response to the terrorist attack that took place at Ataturk International Airport in Istanbul, Turkey: “I was so deeply saddened and horrified by the terrorist attack that took place at the Ataturk International Airport in Istanbul, Turkey that has claimed the lives over 40 people, and wounded scores of others. My thoughts and prayers are with all of the victims and their families. These senseless acts of terrorism remind u... Read more

Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement marking Memorial Day: “On this Memorial Day, let us take a moment to remember the brave men and women who have fought and died in defense of our country. Let us honor their courage, sacrifice, and dedication to preserving the freedoms we so closely cherish. “We must continue to fight for the rights of all veterans, active duty members of the armed forces, and their families. As our troops come home from conflicts overse... Read more

Today, Congressman Hastings (D-FL) sent the below letter to Secretary of State John Kerry, urging him to continue prioritizing the processing of the Special Immigrant Visa applications. Please see below and attached a copy of the letter. Joining Hastings in signing the letter were Representatives (15): John Conyers, Jr., Jim McDermott, Zoe Lofgren, Earl Blumenauer, James P. McGovern, Michael M. Honda, Betty McCollum, Chris Van Hollen, Albio Sires, Peter Welch, David N. Cicilline, Lois Frankel, A... Read more

Rep. Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) and Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ) Co-Chairs of the Congressional Tunisia Caucus, released a joint statement on their amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act of 2016, expressing the sense of Congress that the United States assist and cooperate with the Republic of Tunisia as it combats the threat posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) or other terrorist organizations. Congressman Alcee L. Hastings: “The United States must stand ready to a... Read more

Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) offered an amendment to H.R. 1735, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016, calling for additional funds to be directed to Jordanian border security and military activities. (Please find attached a copy of the amendment): “I am proud to have offered an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which would provide an additional $25 million both to Jordanian border security efforts and enhanced military capability, r... Read more

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) issued the following statement in observance of Veteran’s Day: “As we celebrate Veteran’s Day, let us honor those men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Their courage and sacrifice have not only protected and advanced the freedoms of Americans, but peoples all around the world. “We must not forget that these men and women – who have risked their lives for their country – endure physical wounds, traumatic brain injury, or mental healt... Read more

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement on the third anniversary of the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ the 1993 law that banned open service by gay and lesbian Americans in the military: “Three years ago, our nation committed to history the discriminatory law known as ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’ And three years later, gay and lesbian Americans in uniform continue to serve – as they have always done – bravely and selflessly. The difference is that they are no longer for... Read more

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement regarding the 13th anniversary of the Authorization for Use of Military Force of 2001: “Thirteen years ago, the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) was signed into law by President George W. Bush. “The AUMF authorized the President to use all necessary force against those nations, organizations, or persons he determined planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001, o... Read more