June 20, 2013

Politics

In Heritage speech, Sen. Rand Paul criticizes neo-conservative approach to foreign policy

BY: CHARLIE SPIERING FEBRUARY 6, 2013 | 11:49 AM
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Sen. Rand Paul R-Ky. delivered a foreign policy speech today, criticizing neo-conservatives for their willingness to intervene in foreign conflicts and calling for a return to a humble foreign policy intended by the Founding Fathers.

Paul suggested that dangerous threats national security such as radical Islam should be contained, arguing that the Cold War was won with a similar attitude.

“Radical Islam, like communism is an ideology with far reach and will require a firm and patient opposition,” Paul said, citing U.S. diplomat George Kennan’s approach to foreign policy.

In the speech, Paul suggested that neo-conservatives mistakenly wrapped themselves in the “mantle” of former President Ronald Reagan.

“Reagan’s foreign policy was robust, but also restrained,” Paul insisted. “The truth is that Reagan used clear messages of communism’s evil and clear exposition of America’s strength to contain and ultimately to transcend the Soviet Union.”

 

 

 

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