Schneider Statement on Vote Against GOP’s Partisan Defense Spending Bill That Leaves America’s Military Less Capable

WASHINGTON— Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) released the following statement following his vote against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“In my district, I get to see the fullness of America’s diversity in the marching lines and dining halls at the Recruit Training Center at Naval Station Great Lakes. In my travels, I see the strength of our diversity, and the power of our unity in the brave men and women serving in uniform around the world.  I know our military works best when every service member – regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity – is trusted, and empowered, to reflect the values and protect the security and interests of our great nation.

“I have always voted for the NDAA, and expected to again support the bipartisan package the House Armed Services Committee passed overwhelmingly, 58-1. The sweeping legislation would provide our service members the raises they deserve, and send a strong message to both our allies and our competitors guaranteeing America’s national defense and security. Tragically, Speaker McCarthy’s decision this week to capitulate to the most extreme elements of his party made the original bipartisan bill unrecognizable. The majority’s amended bill attacks the health care of our service members, denigrates huge swaths of our country’s citizens, and will make our military less ready and less capable for the future. As the representative for every Navy recruit and Vice-Chair of the New Democrat Coalition I could not in good conscience vote for such a dreadful, disingenuous and dangerous bill.”  

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