Following passage of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) released the following statement:

“Today’s vote sends a clear message that the United States will continue to stand with the people of Hong Kong as they battle Beijing’s imperialism. The Chinese Communist Party’s quest for power across the region is a direct threat to America’s security and prosperity.”

Senator Hawley is an original cosponsor of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act and recently traveled to Hong Kong to observe the pro-democracy protests. Following his trip to Hong Kong, Senator Hawley gave a floor speech in support of the protestors and introduced the Hong Kong Be Water Act to hold Beijing accountable for its attacks on Hongkongers’ basic rights.