South Miami-Dade News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In a full Homeland Security Committee hearing, Congressman Carlos A. Giménez (FL-28) raised important questions about the growing security challenges in the Arctic region. The hearing aimed to evaluate the role of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in defending U.S. national interests in the Arctic and protecting U.S. sovereignty in the face of increasing threats from Russia and Communist China.

As the Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security, Congressman Giménez has been actively overseeing the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the USCG. In a previous subcommittee hearing titled "Strategic Competition in the Arctic," Congressman Giménez explored the current and future security threats in the region and discussed the best approach for the USCG to address these challenges.

During the hearing, Congressman Giménez emphasized the significance of the Arctic region for the United States. He stated, "The United States, by way of Alaska, is one of eight Arctic countries. The Arctic's abundant natural resources, rich fishing waters, shipping routes, and the opportunity for future development make the region vital to the United States’ national security interests." He also highlighted the USCG's crucial role as the primary enforcer responsible for protecting American sovereignty in the Arctic.

Expressing concern over the expanding military and economic interests of Communist China and Russia in the region, Congressman Giménez pledged to work towards empowering the USCG to counter any nefarious influences. He stated, "As Communist China and Russia work to expand their military and economic interests in the Arctic, I look forward to working to empower the Coast Guard to ward off any malign influences in the region."

The hearing featured several key witnesses who provided insights into the security situation in the Arctic. Vice Admiral Peter W. Gautier, Deputy Commandant for Operations, U.S. Coast Guard, testified about the USCG's efforts in safeguarding U.S. national interests in the region. Ms. Christa Brzozowski, Acting-Assistant Secretary for Trade and Economic Security, Department of Homeland Security, offered her perspective on the economic implications of the Arctic region. Ms. Chelsa L. Kenney, Director of International Affairs and Trade, Government Accountability Office (GAO), shared her expertise on international affairs and trade in the Arctic.

Congressman Giménez's commitment to national security is deeply rooted in his personal experience. As the only Cuban-born Member of the 118th Congress, he fled his homeland following the Communist takeover of the island. Now representing Miami-Dade County and the beautiful Florida Keys, Congressman Giménez serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the Homeland Security Committee, and the Select Committee on China.

The hearing held by Congressman Carlos A. Giménez shed light on the pressing security challenges faced by the United States in the Arctic region. With increasing threats from Russia and Communist China, it is crucial to prioritize the protection of U.S. national interests and sovereignty in this strategically significant area. The insights provided by the witnesses will aid in the development of effective strategies to address these challenges and ensure the Arctic remains a secure and prosperous region for the United States and its allies.

To find out more, go to this link: https://gimenez.house.gov/2023/11/rep-carlos-gimenez-questions-witnesses-on-communist-china-and-russia-threats-in-the-arctic