NATO is a keystone of modern democracy, agree Senators
The McCain Institute at Arizona State University hosted, “Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of D-Day: A Discussion with Senator John Boozman (R-Ark.) & Senator Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.),” an event to discuss the recent bipartisan, bicameral Congressional delegation (CODEL) to Normandy, and the importance of NATO ahead of the 2024 NATO summit in Washington, D.C., this July.
“My dad was a World War II veteran, and I grew up surrounded by others with the same experience throughout our community. It’s becoming more difficult for young people to have those direct interactions with those who served like I had. This was an important conversation to help preserve the legacies of the Greatest Generation and ensure their sacrifices are honored and remembered as we commemorate the anniversary of NATO and support the ideals and freedoms defended by these men and women,” Sen. John Boozman said.
“It was an honor to join a bipartisan Congressional Delegation to pay tribute to the brave Americans and Allied soldiers who fought in Normandy to rid the world of Hitler’s tyranny and mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day,” said Senator Hassan. “Right now, the world – both America’s friends and foes – are watching to see if our country still has the strength and resolve to defend our security and our freedom. Our bipartisan trip showed that the majority of Americans from both parties understand the importance of standing united in our efforts to keep America safe, secure, and free.”
“The 80th anniversary of D-Day and upcoming 75th anniversary of NATO are reminders that modern democracy comes at a cost,” said McCain Institute Director of Democracy Programs Paul Fagan. “Senator McCain saw NATO as the force standing between democracy and Vladimir Putin, and that idea remains true today; we must stand firm with our transatlantic partners.”
Senator McCain was one of the most ardent supporters of NATO. He was an advocate for a continued transatlantic alliance, supported the addition of new members into the Alliance, and remained a staunch critic of Vladimir Putin’s advances on Ukraine.
The McCain Institute hosted a follow-up event on the importance of NATO at ASU’s Tempe, Ariz. campus on Monday, June 24. See the event page HERE.
Video of the event in the Senate is available HERE. Learn more about the McCain Institute’s Democracy program HERE.