Jim Banks

This is just the first $9 billion — if we can't cut $9 billion, how are we going to cut $150 billion?

Now Congress has to do the easy part and claw that back and make those cuts permanent.

I request that this committee get specific answers for what the accountability regime was for this unlawful action by the United States Air Force.

I support the BCNR process and their ability to come back in, should it be adjudicated as such.

A lot has changed in that time. We now have a Space Force. The end of operations in Afghanistan. A Russian war in Ukraine on the eastern flank of NATO.

I would like to include for the record a study from the Heritage Foundation Titled Inclusion Delusion, the Anti-Semitism of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Staff at Universities dated December 8, 2021, by Dr. Jay Green and James Paul.

Can you talk about how they--how DEI programs foster hatred toward people of faith?

to put out a mandate for people that are getting in the cab that are isolated largely, from being exposed to COVID, and are keeping our economy glued together had to be one of the most ridiculous policy ideas I have ever heard.

It seems like common sense. We appreciate all you do to represent Hoosier truck drivers.

this is an administration that well exceeded the statutory authority of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970.

I'd be curious. Hopefully, a study comes out soon that would talk about the overall cost of implementing left wing political agendas that some of these programs are.

Civilian control of the military is the bedrock of our system, and avoiding partisan political ideology is essential to the strength and viability of our military.

I hope this hearing provides the opportunity for our members to have a productive exchange with our witnesses.

There is only one reason for the military and that is to protect and defend our citizens and our country.

You have never had a discussion about how to prevent political ideology from entering into DEI training? That has never happened on your watch?

What is the justification for that giant investment?

I want to welcome everyone to this hearing of the Military Personnel Subcommittee.

I have not heard a single statement today that defends a single man-hour.

The hearing will now come to order.

Trust is a tricky thing because we oftentimes can't see it; yet, we know it exists.

this is pure insanity--a testament to the lack of leadership of this President, that he is not asking you to do whatever you can to stop fentanyl from flooding into this country.

I thank the chairman for yielding, and I appreciate his leadership on all issues related to our veterans in this great country. I appreciate the comments from the ranking member, as well, and his leadership of this committee over the last…

There is no doubt that China must be held accountable for its actions in the COVID-19 pandemic.

the vaccine mandate which ended up kicking out 8,400 service members, I don't think it did much for the morale for the military, the morale for America.

Fentanyl is now the leading cause of death of Americans my age. Almost all of it is manufactured in China.