Friend,

With so much chaos coming out of Washington these days, I know it can be hard to keep up with every news story. That's why I wanted to take a moment to write to you about one that's been weighing heavy on my mind.

President Trump has demonstrated a dangerous pattern of cozying up to corrupt, oppressive foreign leaders. Trump's decision to welcome Turkish President Erdogan to the White House last week is only the latest example. Erdogan is a man who has committed war crimes, attacked our Kurdish allies in Syria and jeopardized our fight against ISIS. For the president to reward Erdogan's deadly, authoritarian actions by wining and dining him in our nation's capital is stomach churning – but sadly, no longer shocking. Since the day he took office, President Trump has steadily eroded the United States's reputation on the world stage.

As a result of President Trump's failed leadership, we're facing an unmitigated disaster in Syria. ISIS is becoming a more urgent, clear and growing threat. Russia and Iran are gaining influence and severely endangering our national security. And the President's failed leadership has paved the way for Turkey to claim free reign over northern Syria – putting our Kurdish allies in danger of ethnic cleansing and potential genocide.

During Erdogan's White House visit, did President Trump hold Erdogan accountable for Turkey's violations of the ceasefire in Syria? No. For Turkish-backed forces' use of chemical weapons on innocent civilians? No. For Turkey's purchase of a Russian air defense system? No. But you know what they likely did discuss? The state of Trump Towers Istanbul. This meeting was nothing more than a show and a sham – an outrageous reward for a dictatorial leader who has committed war crimes and attacked American allies.

Since President Trump has deteriorated the U.S.'s standing as a world leader, it's more critical than ever for Congress to step in for the sake of our national security. As a leader on the Committee on Armed Services, I was briefed on the situation unfolding in Syria during a classified hearing – and what I heard dramatically deepened my feelings of horror and shame at this administration's response.

That's why I introduced legislation that will bring President Erdogan to justice by implementing severe sanctions on Turkey and a ban on arms sales. This is a moment of reckoning for Congress, and I see this as a clear obligation to take action. You can count on me to not back down at this dire moment for our national security, and I'll be sure to keep you updated as this situation continues to unfold.

Thanks so much for taking the time to read,

Dick

I'm fighting tirelessly in the Senate to hold President Trump accountable for his shameful behavior – from his embrace of foreign dictators to his rampant abuse of power. But right now, I need to know where you stand. Will you take just one moment to take a brief survey and share your thoughts with me?

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