Defense and National Security
Providing a strong national defense is the preeminent function of the federal government. The United States is a powerful, stabilizing force in the world because of our overwhelming military power. The mere fact we possess a strong deterrent discourages other nations from taking an aggressive militaristic stance toward us and our allies.
While I agree on the need to eliminate waste and unneeded spending in all aspects of government, we also need to strike a balance between the need for valid reductions and the requirements of our military without jeopardizing our national defense or the protection of our troops overseas. These choices need to be based on existing and future national security threats not arbitrary political numbers.
More on Defense and National Security
WASHINGTON, DC – On Friday, the House pass the final bill that fully funds the Department of Defense, gives U.S. service members a pay raise, and ensures America lives up to our commitments to allies.
WASHINGTON, DC – After three years without a pay raise, American servicemen and servicewomen could see an increase in their paychecks if the House’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) becomes law.
Last month when terrorists attacked the streets and soccer stadiums of Paris, ISIS sent a clear message: They can strike in the West, far from the battlefields of Syria and Iraq. Their reach has increased, moving out from the Middle East and crossing the borders of Europe. The attack in France has once again shaken our allies. The French President, Francois Hollande, promised a swift and “pitiless” response. Within 48 hours French aircraft struck targets in the city of Raqqa. Yet the Obama Administration continues to insist its strategy to deal with ISIS is working, that ISIS is contai
WASHINGTON, DC – Friday afternoon, the House of Representatives passed legislation to lift the ban on exporting crude oil. The bill, which had bipartisan support, repeals the 1975 law that established the ban.
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Gibbs released the following statement after voting against the approval of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action:
WASHINGTON, DC – Following the President’s press conference about yesterday’s announcement of the agreement with Iran, Congressman Bob Gibbs released the following statement: