Angie Craig: “there are a few issues which I think must be considered during what I expect will be complicated and controversial…”

“there are a few issues which I think must be considered during what I expect will be complicated and controversial deliberations on the 1997 Defense authorization bill. First and foremost, this bill defines national security--the Government's primary obligation to its citizens. The United States military is the greatest military power in the world. In a time of rapidly evolving technology, sufficient yet judicious funding authority is absolutely essential to maintain the status quo. The committee budget is $12.9 billion higher than fiscal year 1996 levels. However, adjusting this figure for inflation, the Department of Defense will actually see spending levels reduced by $5.5 billion from last year. The administration in 1994 and 1995 promised outyear funding would increase to recover the shortfalls driven by deep cuts in earlier budgets. Yet, for the second straight year, the Presidential budget is less than projected in previous years. I am confident that DOD will meet its assigned mission, but I am concerned at what cost. If we are to continue sending our soldiers into harm's way, this Nation has a responsibility to provide them with the highest level of technology. I often overhear comments that since the fall of the Iron Curtain, America has no significant enemy. However, since 1989, America has deployed more forces than at any time since 1964.”