Issue Position: Defense

Issue Position

Service members on active duty, Guard, and Reserve forces and their families have made great personal sacrifices in defense of our nation. I am honored to serve as Chairman of the House Appropriations Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee and have the opportunity to support those who have responded valiantly to the threats we have faced. The Constitution outlines our nation's defense as one of the federal government's top priorities. Because of this, I have consistently voted to increase funding for our military since I first came to Congress. I have also worked to increase the quality of life for our men and women in uniform and their families, as well as our nation's veterans.

We must ensure that our troops have the resources and support they need from Congress, while leaving strategic and tactical decisions to the commanders in the field. Congress should not micromanage or second-guess decisions made in real time on the battlefield. I am immensely proud of the men and women of our armed forces, and they can always count on my unwavering support.

Our nation's debt is the top threat to our nation's defense. But the across-the-board cuts to discretionary spending, known as sequestration, would have a disproportionate and devastating impact on our military at a critical time. I believe we must take a more holistic approach to righting our financial woes rather than placing half of the cuts on one of constitutionally designated priorities. I support maintaining a strong and visible presence around the world to ensure American prosperity and protect our country from those who wish us harm. I will continue to support legislation that promotes the well-being and fair treatment of our service men and women. I encourage all Americans to keep in their thoughts and prayers those service members who are deployed in the defense of our nation and our way of life.

Source