Fischer opposes Military Action; Criticizes "Pinball Diplomacy"

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) announced this morning that she will oppose military intervention in Syria at this time:
“All along, I have called for the president to present the American people with a coherent plan for military action in Syria. While the president made an impassioned moral case in last night’s address, his argument regarding a significant U.S. national interest remains weak. Indeed, even his argument for an overwhelming moral purpose is undercut by his desire to focus narrowly on the latest use of chemical weapons in a conflict that has raged for years and claimed over 100,000 lives.
“Unfortunately, what we’ve seen from the Commander-in-Chief so far has been indecision, verbal gymnastics, and a reluctance to step up and lead. This ‘pinball diplomacy’ – haplessly bouncing from idea to idea – is untenable. Let me be clear: I am no isolationist. I firmly believe a post-9/11 world requires dependable American leadership. I remain skeptical, however, that a limited strike will achieve the president’s stated goal of degrading Assad’s chemical weapons capabilities, especially after weeks of telegraphing our military plans. Military force should be accompanied by a comprehensive foreign policy strategy that advances our long-term interests, which the president has yet to provide.
“I do not believe the president made an effective case, and I will not be supporting any military action at this time.
“Despite being told repeatedly by the administration that all diplomatic options had been ‘completely exhausted’ – bringing our nation to the brink of war – it appears conversations between Presidents Putin and Obama to remove Syria’s chemical weapons began well over a year ago and continued as recently as last week. The possibility of removing chemical weapons from Syria is one that we should pursue, but tough diplomacy will be required. I expect the president to follow through and not let the issue fade.”
Since the president initially announced his intention to seek congressional approval for a military strike on Syria, Senator Fischer participated in several classified briefings and meetings with President Obama, including a private working dinner with Vice President Biden and President Obama on Sunday.
This morning on her weekly conference call with the Nebraska media, Senator Fischer discussed the situation in Syria and her opposition to military action at this time. AUDIO of her full statements on the call is available HERE.