Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2810, the FY18 National Defense Authorization Act, but I continue to be surprised at some of the national security pundits who believe that a diminished force structure will improve our national security. Some have questioned whether we should fully fund national defense. Some have even questioned whether we should continue to expand our armed services to meet the strategic challenges posed by a rising China and Russia, by an unpredictable North Korea, and a belligerent Iran. Mr. Chairman, our time is up. The time of action is now. The focus of our Nation is upon us to provide for our national security. I am pleased that we appear to have turned the tide in properly resourcing the requirements of our armed services; and I am pleased that we are authorizing the funding to match our strategy and providing what our combatant commanders need to win any future conflicts; and I am pleased that we have acknowledged the importance of our servicemembers and the hardships that they endure so that we can enjoy our free and democratic society. In reference to the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, I believe that we have reversed a trend toward a diminishing Navy and are tracking toward a strengthened 355-ship fleet. The bill expands on the eight ships requested by the administration and adds an additional five ships.…”