WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) issued the following statement: 

“I chose not to attend Prime Minister Netanyahu's joint address to Congress. It was an enormously difficult decision. My priority with this conflict is, and has always been, to use my position to aid in finding real solutions for enduring peace, a two-state solution, the release of hostages, and expanded humanitarian aid for those suffering in Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel. I believe that centering attention on this speech at this time would not only be a distraction from these important goals, which include a ceasefire agreement, but may in fact make these goals less attainable,” said Houlahan. “I represent a community with diverse opinions. What remains consistent amongst all of them though is a unified desire for the safe return of hostages, a negotiated ceasefire, and a lasting peace. That's why I did not want my attendance to be a distraction. Rather, I will continue focusing on meeting with Israeli and American hostages' families and Muslim communities to better understand their needs. While I was not present at the speech, I did watch it remotely to stay informed and better enable me to perform my duties as a member of the House Armed Services and Intelligence Committees. Let me be clear, my support for our ally Israel is and remains steadfast. Which is why I remain concerned about the suffering of both Palestinians and Israelis alike. I will continue to engage with leaders in the region and hear firsthand about the realities they face. At every opportunity we must reject the politicization of this conflict and stay focused on meaningful solutions that make a real difference.” 

Houlahan is an Air Force veteran, an engineer, a serial entrepreneur, an educator, and a nonprofit leader. She represents Pennsylvania’s 6th Congressional District, which encompasses Chester County and southern Berks County. She serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. She is the recipient of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Abraham Lincoln Leadership for America Award which “recognizes members who demonstrate the bipartisan leadership and constructive governing necessary to move our country forward” and the Congressional Management Foundation’s 2022 Democracy Award for best Constituent Services in Congress. 

###