June 24, 2025

Chairman Aguilar Relaunches National Security Task Force To Ensure America Remains Leader Of The Free World

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar re-launched the Democratic Caucus National Security Task Force co-chaired by Reps. Jason Crow (CO-06), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) and Derek Tran (CA-45). The National Security Task Force will continue to engage experts and convene Members to reassert America’s role as the leader of the free world and develop policy solutions to complex challenges threatening both our national security and Democracy abroad.

“House Democrats are committed to keeping the American people safe, protecting American interests and ensuring America remains the leader of the free world,” said House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar. “The American people want a steady hand at the wheel and the Members leading the National Security Task Force will draw on their patriotism, expertise and commitment to service to provide the leadership that Donald Trump and Rubberstamp Republicans lack the courage and moral clarity to deliver. Donald Trump failed to deliver on his promise for peace and Congress must conduct rigorous oversight of the Trump Administration’s foreign policy, including the President’s decision to unilaterally strike Iran without Congressional authorization.”

“My time in the Army taught me the essence of servant leadership. Servant leaders lead by example, jumping out of the plane first and eating last. Sadly, this is not the leadership we are seeing from President Trump. Instead, this administration’s reckless actions are making us less safe. As the co-chair of the House Democrats’ National Security Task Force, I will work to protect America’s national security and hold the Trump administration accountable,” said Rep. Jason Crow. 

“America needs fighters in the United States Congress who will cut through the chaos, lead with a can-do spirit, and deliver on strengthening our national security and keeping the American people safe,” said Rep. Maggie Goodlander. “That’s what this Task Force is all about, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

“Under Donald Trump and Secretary Hegseth, we’ve seen national security turned into a political prop — with chaos at the Pentagon, the sidelining of experienced military leaders, and decisions that put partisan loyalty ahead of America’s safety,” said Rep. Mikie Sherrill. “This reckless approach threatens the strength of our military and the security of our nation. My experience in the Navy as a helicopter pilot taught me what real leadership looks like and what we’re seeing from this Administration falls far short of that standard. That’s why I’m honored to serve as co-chair of the Democratic National Security Task Force so we can hold Trump accountable and ensure our military serves the American people, not a political agenda.”

“I joined the Army Reserves when I was 18 to give back to the country that had given me so much,” said Rep. Derek Tran. “I bring that devotion to service with me to Congress, especially to protect our national security. I am proud to help lead the House Democratic Caucus National Security Task Force and ensure we protect our country's standing as a leading global democracy. Growing Russian aggression toward Ukraine and China’s rapid expansion into the Indo-Pacific are defining issues of our time. I’ll continue to hold this Administration accountable and ensure that our national security priorities reflect the best interest of the American people.” 

About the Task Force on National Security Members 
Former Army Ranger and Bronze Star recipient, Rep. Crow grew up working class and enlisted in the National Guard to help pay his way through college. After graduating, Rep. Crow joined the active-duty Army and served in the Army’s storied 82nd Airborne Division and in the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, deploying to both Iraq and Afghanistan. 

Before taking the oath to represent New Hampshire in the People’s House, Rep. Goodlander served as an intelligence officer in the United States Navy Reserve for over a decade.

Rep. Sherrill is a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and served in the United States Navy for nearly a decade. She graduated from the first class of women eligible for combat roles, flew as a Sea King helicopter pilot leading missions across Europe and the Middle East, and was later a Russian policy officer.

Rep. Tran enlisted in the Army Reserve at age 18 to give back to the country that welcomed his refugee parents and allowed them to build a foundation that helped him thrive. He served for eight years and was activated for Operation Noble Eagle/Enduring Freedom before earning an honorable discharge.

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