Republican Sen. Bill Hagerty has voiced strong criticism against Vice President Kamala Harris and the Biden administration for their approach to both foreign and domestic policies.

Hagerty accuses Harris of failing to address terrorism adequately and criticizes the administration's stance on cryptocurrency regulation, as the Post Millennial reports.

In an interview with the outlet in Nashville, Hagerty expressed his disappointment in Harris’s reluctance to confront issues of terrorism. He specifically targeted Harris's alleged failure to call out those supporting extremists.

Hagerty Talks About Iran and Middle Eastern Policy

Hagerty did not mince words regarding the Biden administration's handling of Iran. He asserted that the administration has systematically avoided bringing Iran to account for its role in destabilizing the Middle East and funding terrorist activities.

The senator highlighted his previous efforts during the Trump administration, emphasizing his role in enforcing "maximum pressure sanctions" on Iran. He claimed these measures were effective in crippling Iran financially, thereby reducing its capacity to support groups like Hamas and the Houthis.

According to Hagerty, the lifting of these sanctions by the current administration has enabled Iran to augment its nuclear capabilities and fuel regional conflicts.

Conflicts in the Middle East Unfold Under Biden-Harris Administration

The consequence of these lifted sanctions, according to Hagerty, was palpable. During Biden's tenure, an 11-day conflict between Gaza and Israel had erupted. He further referenced the Oct. 7 incursion by Hamas into Israel, resulting in 1,200 deaths and ongoing conflict that threatens to expand to a larger, regional one.

Hagerty also pointed out that the Houthis are currently obstructing international shipping, utilizing resources provided by Iran.

Reflecting on his achievements, Hagerty recounted that during the Trump administration, efforts such as moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and taking decisive actions against figures like Soleimani and Al-Baghdadi did not lead to war, attributing this success to Iran's diminished capabilities during that period.

Concerns Over Cryptocurrency Regulation

The discussion then shifted to domestic issues, particularly the regulation of cryptocurrency. The senator criticized SEC chair Gary Gensler's memo issued on May 22 of this year, which condemned a Republican-led legislative effort to safeguard cryptocurrencies.

Despite Gensler’s objections, the House passed a bill to protect cryptocurrencies with significant bipartisan support, voting 279-136 in favor. Hagerty voiced concerns about a potential Harris presidency, suggesting that she would likely invite Gensler to step into a role as Treasury Secretary.

Potential Shift Toward Central Bank Digital Currency

If Harris were to win the presidency, Hagerty believes there would be a significant push towards a central bank digital currency, heavily influenced by Lael Brainard, who has shown support for such a monetary system to the House Financial Services Committee.

Hagerty warned about the potential dangers of centralized currency. He suggested scenarios where the government could restrict personal financial activities, like limiting fuel purchases, in the name of environmental protections.

He argued that such policies could be alarming to many Americans, as they represent increased governmental control over individual financial freedom.

Accusations Against DOJ

The senator also took aim at the Department of Justice, particularly speial counsel Jack Smith. Hagerty accused Smith of misusing funds allocated for genuine law enforcement purposes to pursue political agendas instead.

During an appropriations committee hearing on July 25, Hagerty proposed an amendment aimed at addressing this issue. He claimed that Smith was diverting resources intended for the FBI and real law enforcement towards politically motivated prosecutions.

"Smith has taken funds meant for the FBI and real law enforcement; rather than using these funds for real law enforcement, Smith is pursuing his party’s presidential opponent," Hagerty stated.

Conclusion

Sen. Bill Hagerty's interview offers a sharp critique of Vice President Kamala Harris and the Biden administration’s policies on both national security and financial regulations.

He asserts that their approach has led to increased instability in the Middle East and fears around the regulation of cryptocurrencies.

These stances, he believes, may have long-term implications for both national security and individual financial freedoms.