WASHINGTON – Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC) Chair David N. Cicilline (RI-01) issued the following statement tonight:

“We owe Secretary Mattis an enormous debt of gratitude for his service to our country. He is a patriot who has always conducted himself with dignity and honor. His resignation today, which comes as a direct result of the President abruptly withdrawing from Syria, is bad news for the security of our country and the strength of our alliances.”

“Over the past two years, President Trump has made America less safe at home and less respected around the world. It is long past time for Republicans to work with Democrats to conduct real oversight of this administration and the bizarre decisions it is making by the day.”

“I am very grateful for Secretary Mattis’s devotion to our country, and I am very disappointed that our country will no longer benefit from his wise and experienced service.”