Washington, DC-Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement upon returning from a national security-focused trip to Afghanistan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. Rep. Norcross joined fellow members of the House Armed Services Committee and received classified briefings from high-ranking military and intelligence officials on the ground.

“My first duty is to ensure the safety and security of the American people, and I will always act to defend our country from threats.

Given recent and ongoing events, it is prudent for us to re-evaluate our nation’s refugee screening process to ensure that it is as strong as possible for the public safety of our citizens.

My recent trips to Israel, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt have confirmed the grave nature of the threats posed by ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and a host of other extremist organizations intent on committing murder throughout the world.

I saw firsthand what terror looks like to the people on the front lines and how our military service members are working tirelessly to keep the fight there away from our shores.

Re-evaluating our screening process for refugees coming from unstable countries that have become a base for these violent extremists is a sensible response to help keep Americans safe.

I have consistently supported our nation’s efforts to provide refuge for people suffering from war and oppression, and will continue to fight for all those seeking a better life in our great nation, especially innocent children.

I welcome new immigrants to our great nation of immigrants, but we must balance that openness with the need for common-sense security. Otherwise, America’s greatest strength will become an obvious weakness for terrorists to exploit.

I am also joining fellow members of Congress in demanding that we close the so-called "terrorist background check loophole” that is allowing people on the terrorism watch list to obtain a deadly firearms, and will continue to advocate for prudent, common-sense policies to keep Americans safe.

My job is to protect America and protect our American values, a job I will continue to do with sincerity and vigilance.”

Congressman Donald Norcross is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Budget Committee, and serves as an Assistant Whip in the 114th Congress.