1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

As your constituent, I urge you to sign the letter circulated by Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY) asking NDAA conferees to remove Section 219 from the final bill. Section 219, the “U.S.-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative,” would tie America’s defense industry more closely to Israel’s. In practice, it lays the groundwork for a long-term arrangement that extends beyond traditional military aid. I am concerned about this provision for three reasons: 1) It would give Israel more influence over U.S. national security decisions. Linking our defense industries this closely would make it harder for the United States to act independently in its own interest. 2) It would weaken congressional oversight. Activities under Section 219 would face less scrutiny from Congress than most U.S. security assistance to Israel does today. 3) It would reward Israel at the wrong time. Section 219 would give Israel access to U.S. defense contracts and technology that no other partner currently receives, despite serious concerns about its human rights record. This provision is also out of step with the American people. Public opinion of Israel is at an all-time low, and the cost of living is at an all-time high. Americans are asking their government to focus on their needs at home, not to deepen military entanglements abroad. Section 219 passed the House in July, but it is not law yet. Conferees can still remove it, and a strong showing of support for Reps. Khanna and Massie’s letter will help make that happen. Please contact Rep. Khanna’s office to add your name. Thank you for your time and consideration.