Garamendi calls for diplomacy amid rising nuclear threats

Today, Representative John Garamendi, a leading Democrat on the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, addressed Congress regarding the growing threat of nuclear escalation. Alongside several other representatives, including Jim McGovern and Don Beyer, Garamendi emphasized the importance of prioritizing diplomacy and arms control over engaging in a new arms race.

"Congress must reclaim its role in shaping a rational, responsible nuclear strategy. One that prioritizes diplomacy over escalation, de-escalation over deterrence, and arms control over arms races. The American people deserve a government that works to reduce the risks, not magnify them," stated Garamendi.

He further stressed the need for rebalancing focus toward arms control through diplomatic engagement and meaningful treaties as effective means for reducing global nuclear stockpiles. "We must rebalance our focus toward arms control, recognizing that diplomatic engagement and meaningful treaties are proven tools for reducing global stockpiles and curbing the spread of nuclear weapons. These efforts demand our unwavering commitment; history has shown that reliance on nuclear arsenals as the core of our security is misguided. With nuclear stockpiles increasing worldwide, our collective call for restraint and de-escalation is more crucial than ever," he continued.

Garamendi also pointed out the escalating costs associated with the Air Force’s Sentinel program intended to replace Minuteman III ICBMs. He noted that this program's budget has reached $200 billion due to an 81% cost overrun. This amount could alternatively fund significant initiatives such as fully financing the National Institute of Health’s annual budget for ten years or providing universal pre-K education across the U.S. for nearly thirty years.

A consistent advocate for congressional oversight in preventing a nuclear arms race involving the U.S., Russia, and China, Garamendi reiterated his commitment to ensuring responsible governance in this area.

A transcript of his speech can be found here.

A video of his speech can be found here.