Wilson Opposes Democrat Hijack of Defense Bill

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2009

Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) issued the following statement today after joining with a large number of conservatives to vote against the political games being played by Democrats. Congressman Wilson voted against the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 (NDAA) after Democrats chose to attach unrelated “hate crimes” legislation to the bill.

“As a veteran, as the father of four sons serving in our military, and as a Member of Congress, my number one priority is to ensure those brave Americans we send into harm’s way have the troop strength and resources to complete their mission.

“This legislation contains many valuable provisions that will go a long way toward honoring our commitment to our military. The final bill includes a 3.4 percent across-the-board pay raise for our troops – which is above the President’s request. I introduced this provision and pushed for its inclusion throughout the process, and I am very pleased it remained in the conference report.

“However, in the end, it is appalling that Democrats have chosen to make this legislation not about our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines but about their liberal agenda. Our obligation to the men and women of our military should not be abused in this manner, and that is why I voted to oppose those who are trying to hijack a good cause to push their partisan politics. It sends a terrible message to our military that this provision has been shoved into this bill when it does nothing for our military families or our national defense. Democrats should stop using our troops and their families as a vehicle for their political games.”

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