; Whereas the International Criminal Court operates on the principle of complementarity and as a court of last resort; Whereas because of these principles, cases are not admissible before the International Criminal Court where they are being genuinely investigated or prosecuted before domestic courts; Whereas despite the United States not being a member of the Court, administrations of both political parties have recognized its utility for the national interests of the United States; Whereas only by ratifying the Rome Statute and becoming a member of the International Criminal Court can the United States credibly shape the Court’s activities and priorities; Whereas the vast majority of the United States oldest and closest allies are state parties to the International Criminal Court; and Whereas it is in line with American values, interests, and proud history as a global leader in the fight against impunity and for justice that the United States becomes a full member of the International Criminal Court: Now, therefore, be it