Crapo, Risch Vote against Obama Proposal to Aid Syrian Rebels

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch today voted against President Obama's proposal to provide aid that would arm so-called Syrian "moderate rebels" to combat the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). This proposal was included as part of the continuing resolution that would fund the government through December 11, 2014.

"ISIS poses a very real threat to the United States and our national security," said Crapo.  "The President's announced action leaves many questions for the American people and Congress.   Unless the Administration provides more details about a comprehensive strategy, I cannot support it."

"I have real reservations about choosing from over 200 different ethnic and religious groups within Syria and arming those that are labeled "moderate" by some in our government," said Risch.  "I am not convinced there is a group of moderate rebels in Syria anymore, period.  There is no easy choice here, but President Obama has not laid out a clear strategy, instead the strategy I have seen is not in my opinion destined to succeed, but drag us further into the mire.  I want to support a winning strategy, but I cannot support his $500 million proposal to aid these groups without a better plan."