Over the course of a weekend, multiple bombs exploded in New York and New Jersey, and 10 people were stabbed in a mall in Minnesota. Investigators are still piecing together details about these terror attacks, but this much is clear: America has become less safe as incidents of radical Islamic violence increase on U.S. soil, from Boston to San Bernardino to Orlando.

When speaking about the threats posed by the Islamic State, the Obama Administration continues to show restraint. Following the weekend attacks, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest described the fight with the Islamic State as a “narrative fight.” I think the White House should instead be talking about its plan to defeat the terrorist group once and for all.

Next President Will Inherit Complex Global Challenges

The consequences of the Obama-Clinton foreign policy are everywhere. North Korea has already carried out two nuclear tests this year, and Iran has not abandoned its intent of achieving a nuclear program. In spite of Iran’s record of rogue behavior, the Administration lifted U.S. sanctions and delivered $1.7 billion in cash payments to the state sponsor of terrorism. In neighboring Iraq, the Administration’s premature withdrawal of troops has enabled extremists to seize the power vacuum and establish strongholds. For two years, the Islamic State has controlled Iraq’s second-largest city.

We are also witnessing a major humanitarian crisis as a years-long civil war rages on in Syria. During his farewell speech to the United Nations on September 20, President Obama offered a bleak outlook, saying “there’s no ultimate military victory to be won” in Syria. Rather than taking action when Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad crossed the “red line” and used chemical weapons against his own people, the Obama Administration has allowed Russian President Vladimir Putin to exploit the situation and ultimately embolden the Assad regime. After the Administration’s failed attempt to “reset” U.S.-Russia relations in 2009, Mr. Putin has only grown more and more defiant, violating international law and invading Ukraine.

The next President will inherit these global challenges. The next President will also inherit our country’s indomitable pursuit of freedom, no matter how difficult the challenges may be.

Policies to Protect Americans, Improve Preparedness

The Senate has been working to produce policies that will strengthen our preparedness and national security against changing and complex threats. One measure in particular would improve the FBI’s ability to prevent “lone wolf” attacks in the United States.

Many of our bipartisan ideas this Congress have become law, such as a bill protecting Americans from cyberattacks. Other efforts, like the defense appropriations bill, have been stalled by Senate Democrats for political gain. These tactics should never get in the way of protecting the selfless Americans who serve our country.

As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I am involved in the shaping of our country’s defense policy. I also routinely question our military leaders about the Administration’s strategies and troop needs. Current events are a reminder to stay vigilant, but they also underscore the importance of U.S. leadership during these tumultuous times.