On the recordJanuary 18, 2018
Here we are again, having to vote on a continuing resolution instead of a full-year appropriations deal because of political reasons. Mr. Speaker, I am appalled that much-needed defense dollars are once again being held hostage for political reasons. We have heard time and again from military leaders about the devastating readiness crisis plaguing every corner of the military. We have planes that cannot fly, troops that cannot deploy, and we are literally running out of bombs. It is irresponsible and morally wrong to send our troops into harm's way without adequate resources and training. Last year alone, there were 80 deaths related to readiness and training accidents. It is clear that insufficient and unreliable funding is wearing our military to the bone and costing precious lives. As Members of Congress, we have the power of the purse. We can relieve the military from this deadly cycle. I call on my colleagues to end the political games. Support the men and women in uniform who risk their lives every day to defend this country. Support a budget agreement that provides our servicemembers with the funding they so desperately need. ____________________
