South OC Times

Washington - Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) has expressed his strong support for Gold Star families following President Biden's State of the Union Address. Issa criticized the President's speech, stating, "Filled with pointing fingers and placing blame, President Biden’s SOTU address was a defensive and divisive speech typical of a White House unable to acknowledge their failures or accept any responsibility for the disasters on their watch."

Issa highlighted the powerful message delivered by California Gold Star father Steve Nikoui, emphasizing the need for accountability in the aftermath of the tragic events in Afghanistan. Issa stated, "Last night did feature one poignant speaker — but it wasn’t the president. My friend and California Gold Star father Steve Nikoui’s direct call for accountability reminded the entire nation what the President wants everyone to forget — 13 U.S. servicemembers were lost at the Abbey Gate bombing in Afghanistan in the chaotic and disastrous withdrawal for which Biden alone is responsible."

The Congressman further expressed solidarity with the Gold Star families who attended the event, acknowledging their right to be angry with the administration's handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal. Issa emphasized the families' mission for accountability, stating, "The families continue their mission: accountability for the disastrous decisions that led to the loss of their loved ones and to ensure it never happens again."

Issa reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Gold Star families, declaring, "This isn’t over. I stand with these Gold Star families, I share their anger and frustration, and I will continue the work toward the accountability they deserve."

In a show of solidarity, Congressman Issa invited Gold Star mother Coral Briseno, mother to Marine Corporal Humberto Sanchez, as his guest to the State of the Union address. Briseno was among several Gold Star families in attendance at the event.

In August 2023, Congressman Issa hosted a congressional forum for the Gold Star families of the servicemembers lost in the Afghanistan withdrawal, demonstrating his ongoing support for these families.

The names of the 13 fallen servicemembers in the Abbey Gate bombing on August 26, 2021, were also reiterated in the statement.