Maxwell Frost: “Mr. Speaker, halfway around the world, the men and women of the U.S. military are demonstrating unmatched courage and…”

“Mr. Speaker, halfway around the world, the men and women of the U.S. military are demonstrating unmatched courage and professionalism in the fight against the Taliban and al-Qaeda. Their successes on the battlefield are a tribute to them and their families and to America's longstanding commitment to a strong national defense. Meanwhile, here at home, domestic security has become our top priority, and Democrats and Republicans alike are united in our efforts to prevent and defend against further terrorist attacks. This bill provides a good foundation for supporting these efforts. In my 23 years of service in this Congress, I have always been a strong supporter of America's national and domestic security. I strongly support the funding in this bill to provide for our Armed Forces. I have consistently supported funding for our troops, for without them, we cannot fight. I have consistently supported modernizing and upgrading our equipment, for without it, our military cannot carry out its mission. Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, this bill does not go far enough, because the Republican leadership in this House has refused to make the investment needed to support the war abroad fully and to protect America at home fully.”