National Security
Principles
- Provide a strong national defense
- Ensure that our military has the resources it needs to confront future threats
- Maintain defense investment, which is an important job contributor to our region
The strength of America’s military is derived from the professionalism of the men and women filling its ranks and the technological advantage that sets it apart from any other fighting force in the world. Since World War II and the decades of diplomatic and military engagement during the Cold War, America’s industrial base – once called the Arsenal of Democracy – designed and built the resources that helped carry us to victory and contribute to our security today.
Visiting with troops in Afghanistan on Memorial Day weekend
For Southern California, the defense and aerospace industry is one of the largest contributors to our regional economy, representing almost a third of our local work force and further defining our community as a centerpiece of national security. It is estimated that over 300,000 jobs in San Diego are related to national defense alone.
Added investment in national defense strengthens security and the economy, providing quality jobs and opportunities for the next generation of scientists and engineers. We can be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars without undermining our long-term defense capability. The debate over federal spending has helped to raise awareness on what government does with taxpayer money.
Even then, strengthening national defense must remain among our top funding priorities. New security threats will continually emerge, some far more serious than others, making it even more necessary that we are prepared to confront any situation that arises with a fighting force that is second to none. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee I am committed to ensuring our men and women in uniform have the resources and equipment they need to address current and future threats. To that end, I offered an amendment to the 2013 National Defense Authorization Act to require an annual report to Congress on the Armed Forces unfunded priorities.
What are your thoughts on national defense?
What is your number one reason we need a strong national defense? Please click here and let me know.
Resources for you:
- The House Committee on Armed Services, of which I am a member, is working on numerous issues to ensure our nation maintains a strong national defense. Click here to access the Committee’s website.
- I am Co-Chair of the National Guard and Reserve Components Caucus, which works to ensure that our National Guard has adequate resources. For more information, click here.