On the recordDecember 7, 2023
I rise to express my support for the fiscal year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act. I am glad that we have just brought the NDAA conference report to the floor. First, I would like to acknowledge Senator Roger Wicker, Chairman Mike Rogers, and Representative Adam Smith, whose partnership has been critical for the success of this bill. The hallmark of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees has long been bipartisanship, and I am glad we have continued that tradition for the 63rd consecutive year. I would also like to thank my colleagues on the Senate and House Armed Services Committees who helped produce this bill, as well as Leader Schumer, Leader McConnell, Speaker Johnson, and Leader Jeffries, who facilitated a thorough debate and enabled all Members to engage in the process. We were able to negotiate hundreds of provisions between both Chambers over the past few months--the most in many years. This is a strong, forward-looking bill that I think we can all be proud of. This NDAA is laser-focused on the threats we face. It addresses a broad range of pressing issues, from strategic competition with China and Russia to countering threats from Iran, North Korea, violent extremists, and climate change. The bill authorizes record level investments in key technologies, like hypersonics and artificial intelligence, and makes real progress toward modernizing our ships, aircraft, and combat vehicles.…
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