By Russett Reader Staff
Columbia,MD
Standing with about a dozen fellow veterans in the shadow of the U.S. Naval Academy, Mike Rogers took the opportunity to condemn Donald Trump's recent remarks to allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to topple member countries of the NATO alliance.
"For generations now, NATO has stood on the front lines of protecting Democratic ideas around the globe. I've had the honor of serving with many soldiers from NATO countries who have placed their lives on the line to fight against Russian aggression where ever it may exists. Trump's remarks are astounding in its foolishness and serve as another reminder about why we need to turn up the vote in this election," said Rogers. Rogers is a retired Army Colonel.
Rogers' remarks follows a prized endorsement for his Congressional run by "With Honor" which supports veterans committed to finding common ground solutions in Congress. The group's advisory board counts among its members former U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates, barrier breaking General Nadja West, and former Senate Democrat Leader Tom Daschle. The "With Honor" endorsement follows a recent endorsement for Rogers' Congressional campaign by "Democrat Serves."
Rogers said he is "absolutely honored" to be endorsed by the bipartisan group. He says that there is a hunger in this country right now for proven leaders who can work across the aisle on important issues. "I think the 'With Honor' endorsement acknowledges a lifetime of my work fighting for our Democracy, voting rights, and women's rights. I've worked on these issues during my time in the Maryland General Assembly. I've supported protections for fire fighters in Maryland, worked to increase pay for teachers, and fought for a living wage and affordable housing. During my youth, my family at one time had to rely on America's safety net. So, I don't come to the struggles of everyday Americans as a stranger. I intend to bring the same fight as your next member of Congress," said Rogers.
Rogers concluded his remarks by pressing Congress to fully fund aid to Ukraine. He said as the Chair of the Veterans Caucus in the Maryland General Assembly, that he is proud of the patriotic work that so many Maryland veterans are contributing on behalf of Ukraine. "Right behind me, here at the U.S. Naval Academy, are future officers who will continue to lead the fight for our values as a country. We should be mindful of their sacrifices and I will most certainly be an advocate for them in Congress. Ukraine matters as does voting rights, women's rights, and access to opportunity and education. We've got to get this right for the young leaders behind me. I appreciate them as I'm sure all of Maryland does."
Rogers is running for Congress in Maryland's Third Congressional District which includes the cities of Annapolis, Severn, Hanover, Glen Burnie, Laurel, Fulton, Columbia, Clarksville, and Ellicott City.