Political Quotes

“Mr. Chair, I rise in strong support of the FY17 Defense Appropriations bill. This very important bill provides for our national security by supporting our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines, on whom we rely to provide that security. During very dangerous times, we must ensure that the United States remains not only the greatest country in the world, but also the strongest. Chairman Frelinghuysen takes the constitutional responsibility of providing for the common defense very seriously, and he deserves all of our thanks for drafting such a significant and meaningful bill. This is not an easy bill to draft. With increased threats and reduced budgets, the Department of Defense is being forced to make decisions it should never have to make. It is making decisions to align with the budget crisis instead of making decisions to protect the homeland and defeat our enemies. The military readiness accounts are an example of the shocking consequence of this budget environment. Already stretched thin by more than a decade of war, Marine aviation squadrons actually have to salvage aircraft parts from museums in order to keep planes flying. This is unconscionable. Our national security needs more. Our troops deserve better. The bill Chairman Frelinghuysen drafted takes a responsible approach in addressing these and other pressing issues.…”