Lisa McCormick​ calls on Congress to reaffirm United States’ values

New Jersey Democrat and progressive advocate Lisa McCormick called on Congress to pass a Joint Congressional Resolution reaffirming the United States’ commitment to Western democratic values, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and the condemnation of Russian aggression.

McCormick’s push comes in response to the Trump administration’s opposition to a United Nations declaration identifying Russia as the aggressor in its war with Ukraine, a stance that has drawn widespread criticism and raised concerns about the erosion of U.S. leadership on the global stage.

“The United States has long been a beacon of democracy and a defender of international law, but the Trump administration’s refusal to unequivocally condemn Russian aggression undermines our moral authority and emboldens authoritarian regimes,” said McCormick. “Congress must act now to reaffirm our nation’s commitment to democratic values, NATO, and the principles of sovereignty and self-determination that have guided our foreign policy for decades.”

McCormick’s proposed resolution would:

1. Reaffirm U.S. Commitment to Democratic Values: Declare the United States’ unwavering support for the rule of law, individual liberty, and the sovereignty of nations.
2. Strengthen NATO: Reiterate the United States’ commitment to NATO’s collective defense obligations under Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, ensuring that an attack on one member is treated as an attack on all.
3. Condemn Russian Aggression: Designate the Russian Federation as a rogue state for its repeated violations of international law, including its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, cyberattacks, election interference, and use of chemical weapons.
4. Forbid Executive Branch from Undermining NATO: Prohibit the executive branch from taking any action that undermines the confidence, unity, or mutual support of NATO allies, including public statements, policy decisions, or diplomatic engagements that cast doubt on the U.S. commitment to the alliance.

The Trump administration’s opposition to the United Nations declaration naming Russia as the aggressor in Ukraine has drawn sharp criticism from lawmakers, foreign policy experts, and allies.

By refusing to hold Russia accountable, the administration has sent a dangerous signal to authoritarian regimes worldwide, suggesting that acts of aggression will go unchallenged.

“This is not just about Ukraine—it’s about the future of global security and the survival of democratic values,” McCormick said. “When the United States fails to stand up to bullies like Vladimir Putin, we embolden dictators and weaken the alliances that have kept the world safe for generations. Congress must act to ensure that no president can undermine our commitment to NATO or turn a blind eye to Russian aggression.”

McCormick’s call for a Joint Congressional Resolution reflects growing bipartisan concern over the Trump administration’s foreign policy approach, which has often alienated traditional allies while cozying up to authoritarian leaders.

McCormick said the resolution would serve as a clear statement of U.S. priorities and a check on executive overreach, ensuring that the United States remains a steadfast defender of democracy and international law.

“The American people deserve a foreign policy that reflects our values and protects our interests,” McCormick said. “This resolution is a critical step toward restoring U.S. leadership on the global stage and sending a clear message to our allies and adversaries alike: the United States stands with democracy, not dictatorship.”

McCormick urged lawmakers from both parties to support the resolution and take immediate action to reaffirm the United States’ role as a global leader in the fight for freedom, justice, and peace.