Louie Gohmert: “I appreciate the attention that the committee has given to the issue and that, in the past, the National Guard may have…”

“I appreciate the attention that the committee has given to the issue and that, in the past, the National Guard may have had extra funds that were moved and able to be used elsewhere, but these are recent developments that have been going on even since our Appropriations Committee has been having hearings, and so this is such a dramatic problem that it is escalating every day. I would like to correct the record. Actually, this proposal will not purchase any new helicopters. There are 100 National Guard helicopters. This would just pay for the use and the crew and the maintenance and upkeep of eight of those they already have. It won't purchase any more. I wish we could get helicopters that cheaply. It will keep eight of them in use with the drug interdiction on our border right now because there is an invasion going on at our southern border. It is an invasion, and it is increasing, as I say, every day. With that request, I don't think it is asking too much to have eight helicopters that have already been purchased--they just need crews, equipment, and upkeep--to help in the interdiction of the invasion in which drugs are being brought across our border in the south. With that, I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gohmert). The question was taken; and the Acting Chair announced that the noes appeared to have it.”