Press Releases

Edwards Statement on FY2015 National Defense Authorization Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 4, 2014


Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards (MD-4) released the following statement regarding her vote opposing H.R. 3979, National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015.  

“This National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) extends the authority the Administration is using to justify military action in Syria for an additional two years without explicit Congressional approval or debate.  I cannot support a foreign policy to train and equip Syrian rebels and fight ISIS over the long-term absent a full debate and vote by Congress – that is our constitutional responsibility.  

“I support provisions in this House-Senate agreement to help combat sexual assault in the military, and to provide a 1.0 percent pay increase and necessary resources for our service members and their families.  Nonetheless, I could not vote for this NDAA.  After more than a decade of war, it’s time for a debate in Congress to reassure the American people and our military community about the best path forward.”

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