WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, this evening made the following statement regarding the President’s address on American efforts to combat terrorism:

"As the President reiterated tonight, Congress has a role to play in our effort to defeat ISIS and protect American citizens, and I hope Congressional leaders will take quick action. I'm pleased that this week, Congress will move forward with common-sense changes to our visa waiver program to help keep dangerous individuals out of our country.

"However, in other areas, Congress is simply failing to do its job. Republican Leadership has derailed fixes to our gun laws that would keep weapons out of the hands of those on the terrorist watch list. The President is right that we need to act, and I hope my colleagues will put aside politics and do the right thing."

###