Austin News

February 25, 2025

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) addressed the Senate floor today, emphasizing the need for Congress to pass legislation that would restrict American investments in sensitive technologies in China. This initiative aims to enhance U.S. national security, a cause Cornyn has consistently supported.

Senator Cornyn expressed concern about current investments by American entities that may be contributing to China's military advancements. "At this very moment, American investors—some of these are businesses, some of these are individuals—the investments they’re making are fueling China’s military buildup and modernization by funneling capital into, potentially, dual-use technology and military capabilities that could eventually be used against the United States and our allies," he stated.

He questioned how the U.S. could compete with Chinese companies if American dollars continue to support their economic and military growth. "How can we expect to outcompete or even catch up to Chinese companies if, unbeknownst to us, American dollars are continuing to fuel their rise economically and militarily?" Cornyn asked.

Cornyn highlighted the urgency of addressing this issue: "We’re simply not being serious about confronting our greatest strategic adversary if we continue to be blind to the investment of billions of dollars and the very technologies that could be potentially used to kill American Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines."

He remains optimistic about passing relevant provisions this year through collaboration between both chambers of Congress. "There are reasons for optimism that this year will be the time we get these provisions over the finish line," he said.

Cornyn has been working with various lawmakers including Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, Chairman of the Select Committee on CCP John Moolenaar, Congressman Michael McCaul, and Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott. Together they aim to finalize legislation with broad bipartisan support.

The proposed bill is seen as a protective measure for Americans against aiding China's economic and military development. "It will be a home run for all Americans," Cornyn remarked.

He concluded by stating that only China stands to lose from this legislation: "The only party that stands to lose from this legislation will be the Chinese Communist Party, and it’s high time that they be held accountable."