Thread by @GsmittySmith

More from fmr. NSA O’Brien (@robertcobrien) —>

https://twitter.com/gsmittysmith/status/1452250672037081096

“One of the lessons we have learned especially during the global pandemic, is that economic security is national security. That is why one of my highest priorities as NSA was ensuring that we had the industrial base to ensure our national security.”

“We require a strong domestic maritime industry, so that we do not have to rely on China to move goods around the world. That industry also provides the ships and mariners we will depend on in any future conflict.”

“It is for this reason that strengthening our domestic shipyards and keeping the Jones Act in place are so important for our country.”

“As today’s supply chain crisis demonstrates, semiconductors are the new key to our economy - from automobiles to computers to mobile phones to advanced fighter jets. We must have a domestic manufacturing capacity for these advanced chips, built by US companies in the US.”

“There is no choice but to win the 5G spectrum race.  The Chinese see it that same way and are rolling out 5G with dispatch in their homeland.  We have spent years debating the topic, and the verdict is in.”

“A robust spectrum network in the U.S. does not threaten existing defense or space capabilities.  Let’s get our networks built and maintain our competitive advantage in mobile communications for decades to come.”

“I know that many of you, on both sides of the aisle, have concerns about some of the practices of the U.S. tech industry.”

“Keep in mind that the alternative to a successful U.S. tech industry in one dominated by China.   China’s objectives in the tech sphere are not just about market share- they are about control. Control of information and disinformation, of ideas, of our thoughts.”

“As the @NBA has learned, the Chinese Communist Party’s ambitions extend far beyond its own country - they are truly global in scope. We can never cede our tech advantage to the CCP and its nat’l champion companies.”

“My purpose tonight has been to outline steps relating to the size and range of our navy, defense assistance to Taiwan, diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific and economics here at home that will enhance our freedom and promote the freedom of our allies.”

“I hope you have noted that these proposals are not partisan in nature and have or should have the support of Democrats, Republicans, and Independents.”