Following the shooting of two National Guardsmen from West Virginia on Wednesday in Washington, D.C. allegedly by an Afghan asylum seeker, a past vote in the U.S. House of Representatives is being increasingly scrutinized.

In July 2021, Congress passed a Democrat-introduced measure, providing additional visas with relaxed restrictions for Afghan nationals after the United States' botched withdrawal from the Middle Eastern country.

The accused assailant, Afghan Rahmanullah Lakanwal, entered the United States in September 2021, just a little over two months later. He later obtained asylum in April 2025.

While Congress overwhelmingly passed the measure, 16 members voted against it, citing national security concerns created by weakened restrictions on Afghan immigrants. U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) was one of only two Alabama lawmakers to oppose the move.

In a statement to 1819 News, Moore explained his no vote in 2021.

“First, my prayers are with the National Guardsmen, their families, and all who were affected by the horrific attack in Washington," Moore stated. "I voted against relaxing vetting and visa restrictions for Afghan nationals because national security cannot be compromised for convenience. When we lower standards, we put American lives at risk, especially the men and women who wear the uniform.”

“My priority will always be the safety of our troops and our communities,” he added.

Moore was joined by former U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Huntsville) in voting against the measure.

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