Rep. Calvert: “We cannot afford to retreat from our military investments”

Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42), Ranking Member of the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, issued the following statement regarding the Fiscal Year 2022 Defense Appropriations bill:

"At a time when China's global ambitions are fueling rapid growth in its military capabilities, and aggression from Russia as well as Iran threatens the interests of America and our allies, we cannot afford to retreat from our military investments. Failing to build the ships and aircraft necessary to project our force around the world sends a signal of weakness and is an invitation for chaos. Providing inadequate resources for training and readiness creates a dangerous scenario that jeopardizes the safety of our troops.

At a time when President Biden has showered most federal agencies and programs with unprecedented funding, his budget shortchanges our military. While the bill considered today is an improvement from the budget request, much work remains. Far too many dollars are being allocated for progressive goals rather than national security goals. I'm hopeful as the appropriations process moves forward we can continue to improve the bill and ensure our men and women in uniform have the tools, training and resources necessary to secure our nation."

Click here to read Ranking Member Calvert's opening statement, as prepared for delivery.