Says our nation is “in better hands” with Mattis and Kelly, looks forward to hosting them in Kansas

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) today released the following statement on his votes to confirm on Marine Gen. James Mattis as Secretary of Defense and Marine Gen. John Kelly as Secretary of Homeland Security.

“Our country is in better hands with these two Marines in key defense and national security positions,” said Roberts. “Both General Kelly and General Mattis truly live the Marine Corps motto, Semper Fidelis, always faithful – having spent decades risking their lives in the defense of our nation. As a Marine and Chairman of the Senate Marine Corps Caucus, I am proud to see more Marines in these critical leadership positions – especially at the helm of protecting our nation.

“I look forward to working closely with both of these leaders, and to hosting them back home to see our defense equities at Ft. Riley, Ft. Leavenworth, McConnell AFB, the amazing work happening at the Fusion Center in Topeka – and to learn more about the National Bio and Agro-defense Facility as it is being constructed in Manhattan.”

Senator Roberts is the most senior Marine in the Congress. He established the Senate Marine Corps Caucus in 2015. He also served as Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee from 2002 – 2006.

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