On the recordJuly 21, 2020
Since taking office, President Trump has delivered on his promise to rebuild our military. The Mac Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act fully funds the President's budget request, authorizing funding for national defense commitments at home and abroad. This bill includes a 3 percent pay raise for our troops and their families. If anyone deserves a raise, it is the brave men and women in uniform who sacrifice so much while defending freedom around the world. This bill also provides critical investments in artificial intelligence and makes sure our military can prepare for and respond to emergent threats from China and other adversaries around the world. This bill also provides funding for the Space Force, a strategic area where we have fallen well behind over the years. Parts of this bill also ensure that the Department of Defense has the resources to protect our Armed Forces from the coronavirus, with funding for PPE and testing capabilities. Portions of this bill show the world that the U.S. military is strong and will preserve peace through strength, a top priority of President Trump. This bill continues to make up for the shortfalls of the past and sends a clear message to our servicemembers that we have their backs. ____________________
