In a heated exchange during Wednesday’s House hearing, Secretary of State Marco Rubio rebuked Representative Brad Sherman for demanding that he respond to questions solely with “yes” or “no.” Rubio argued that “this is not a game show”
In Washington, D.C., Rubio appeared before the House Foreign Affairs Committee and answered questions about foreign assistance, the spread of nuclear weapons in Iran and Saudi Arabia, the conflict in Ukraine, and other topics. When Sherman questioned Rubio on a possible nuclear cooperation deal with Saudi Arabia, tensions quickly rose.
“Let me start by saying that we have not discussed the possibility of starting one. For instance, during the most recent journey,” Rubio said before Sherman interrupted him.
“My time is limited,” the lawmaker cut in. “Either give me a yes or a no.”
“Well, I’m going to give you my answer if you want my answer,” said Rubio.
With the excuse that he was recovering his time, Sherman interrupted Rubio.
“Then get your time back. Rubio clarified that it is not a game show. “I get to respond. These questions are rather intricate.
“I am reclaiming my time,” Sherman said to the secretary. The Senate is the venue for the filibuster. Definitely not this place.
I’m not engaging in a form of political stonewalling. “I’m doing my best to respond to your question,” Rubio said.
The second question Sherman posed was if Rubio could guarantee Congress that sanctions would remain in place until Iran’s verifiable agreement to cease all nuclear enrichment. Sherman then went on to his next question.
Telling Rubio, “That’s a yes or no question,” Sherman concluded.
This was Rubio’s response: “No, it’s not.”
Could you please tell me if it’s yes or no? Am I to go to the next step? Sherman inquired.
“We believe that Iran should not be allowed to enrich uranium, correct,” said Rubio.
“You believe that?” Sherman inquired.
“We believe that an acceptable deal with Iran is one in which they cannot enrich, because if they can enrich, they can weaponize,” stated Senator Rubio.
“I know why we don’t want – I asked you will we agree, will we continue the sanctions until they verifiably agree to get rid of enrichments.”
“Oh, there’s no need to be concerned,” Rubio reassured. “The prior government was a source of concern. The current government-“
After interrupting Rubio to say, “Your refusal to give me an answer is loud and clear,” Sherman then yelled over him to regain his time.
Rubio was called upon by the House to provide testimony about the stance of the State Department in safeguarding American interests. Rubio repeated throughout the session his belief that government action must lead to tangible benefits for the American people, such as increased security, national strength, or economic prosperity.
