China is engaging in another "dangerous action" with its plans to impose national security legislation over Hong Kong, Sen. Martha McSally, who along with Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., is introducing legislation to fight that move, said Monday.
"(This is) going against the agreement in 1984 that the people of Hong Kong would have a higher degree of autonomy, a democratic society," said the Arizona Republican on Fox News' "Fox and Friends." "Josh Hawley and a dozen senators are condemning it and the bill we passed last year, the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, will not allow them if they go forward with this. (It will) have deep economic impacts with China and I hope they think twice."
A Chinese official said last Thursday the legislation on Hong Kong is planned after last year's pro-democracy protests. His comments drew a warning from President Donald Trump that their plans could bring a strong response from Washington.
"We're hearing around the world there's been 200 people from other countries, different individuals who have signed on to a letter condemning this, and asking to stand up as a world against this activity," said McSally. "We need to continue that kind of support and put the pressure on China...they still have time to turn around."
She also discussed her new book "Dare to Fly," in which the retired Air Force colonel, the first woman to fly a fighter jet in combat, talks about her successes and failures and shares principles that have guided her.
"When I interact with people all over Arizona, I'm inspired by their stories this is my opportunity to just share some of my wisdom," McSally, who is seeking re-election, commented. "I've had some unique experiences but they are common lessons of how to overcome fear, how to persevere to achieve your dreams, how to not walk by a problem, and make a difference."