Austin Scott: “this is a very, very emotional issue. I come to the well with mixed emotions, simply because we are asked to do two…”

“this is a very, very emotional issue. I come to the well with mixed emotions, simply because we are asked to do two things here: We are asked to stand up and support our troops, and, at the same time, we are asked to stand up and support our taxpayers. I want to answer the first question quite frankly and straightforward, that I will vote for this supplemental based on the needs of our soldiers who are not into this political debate, but simply need equipment and support to do the job that our country sent them to do. This bill provides $65 billion out of the $87 billion and provides needed funding for our troops. Part of this money is designed to go and purchase body armor to protect our soldiers. Part of this money is going to support continued payment of per diem for travel for family members. I have just come from my district, and I realize the hardships being placed upon family members. There is an increase in the monthly rate of imminent danger pay in this budget from $150 to $225, and also for family separation. Now, with that out of the way, it still remains a fundamental question that we must stand up for the taxpayer as well, and that is the convoluted position we are in. How do we stand up for our troops and support them in their needs for battle, to do the job that we sent them there to do? How can we not vote for these precious items that will protect their lives, including equipment to defuse ordinances away from land mines to save their lives?”