WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger was named Co-Chair of the New Democrat Coalition National Security Task Force.

The New Democrat Coalition National Security Task Force is focused on developing a tough, smart national security strategy that protects American families and interests. As Co-Chair, Spanberger will focus on demonstrating the importance of American leadership abroad and reaffirming a commitment to the vital role of diplomacy and humanitarian assistance.

“As Congress evaluates how best to respond to our pressing security challenges, I’m eager to help lead the New Democrat Coalition National Security Task Force,” said Spanberger. “As a former CIA case officer, I recognize that destabilizing behavior around the globe needs to be met with data-driven, bipartisan policy that builds a robust strategy for using our military, intelligence, and diplomatic resources effectively. Together, we can develop legislation that keeps American families strong and safe and reasserts a thoughtful and mission-driven foreign policy, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Task Force to accomplish this critical goal.”

“The New Democrats are about finding innovative solutions to complicated issues,” said Rep. Suzan DelBene, Vice-Chair for Policy, New Democrat Coalition. “The American people have said they want Congress to get things done. With this talented group, we’re committed to finding the best ideas to expand our middle class and create opportunities for hardworking families in this new economy.”

Spanberger is serving as Co-Chair of the Task Force alongside U.S. Representatives Anthony Brown (D-MD-4), Brendan Boyle (D-PA-2), and Brad Schneider (D-IL-10).

The New Democrat Coalition is made up of over 100 forward-thinking Democrats who are committed to pro-economic growth, pro-innovation, and fiscally responsible policies. New Democrats are a solutions-oriented coalition seeking to bridge the gap between left and right by challenging outmoded partisan approaches to governing.

Background

Last week, Spanberger was selected to serve as a member of two key subcommittees on the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee—the Europe, Eurasia, Energy, and the Environment Subcommittee and the Asia, the Pacific, and Nonproliferation Subcommittee.

Spanberger is committed to reinforcing the importance of U.S. relationships with key allies in Europe, Asia, and around the world. Last month, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Support Act—which Spanberger helped introduce—overwhelmingly passed in the U.S. House. The bipartisan legislation would reinforce the U.S. commitment to its fellow NATO member states.

A former case officer with the Central Intelligence Agency and a former federal agent, Spanberger represents Virginia’s 7th Congressional District, which contains all or portions of Amelia, Chesterfield, Culpeper, Goochland, Henrico, Louisa, Nottoway, Orange, Powhatan, and Spotsylvania counties in Central Virginia.

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