General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Benghazi Put To Rest ---> [View all]napkinz
(17,199 posts)If it is a scandal ... it's a REPUBLICAN scandal.
Republicans slashed diplomatic security budget, still trying to cut more
May 09, 2013
As part of the Republican majority that has controlled the House the last two years, Mr. Issa joined in cutting nearly a half-billion dollars from the State Departments two main security accounts. One covers things like security staffing, including local guards, armored vehicles and security technology; the other, embassy construction and upgrades. In 2011 and 2012, President Obama sought a total of $5 billion, and the House approved $4.5 billion.
Utah teabagging Rep. Jason Chaffetz has been a leading proponent of Benghazi conspiracy theories, yet even he isn't shy to proclaim his votes against diplomatic security:
OBRIEN: Is it true that you voted to cut the funding for embassy security?
CHAFFETZ: Absolutely. Look, we have to make priorities and choices in this country.
Their priorities have consequences. Meanwhile, Hillary Clinton (among others) had long warned Republicans that they were weakening national security by cutting, well, security. Back in February of 2011:
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton emerged from a meeting with House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) sharply critical of proposed Republican cuts to the State Department budget, warning they will be detrimental to Americas national security."
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/05/09/1208061/-Republicans-slashed-diplomatic-security-budget-still-trying-to-cut-more
She WARNED Republicans.
They didn't listen.
The GOP must be held accountable.