East Central Alabama News

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Rogers (R-AL), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, delivered a compelling opening statement at a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) budget request for the Department of Defense. In his address, Representative Rogers highlighted the pressing issues surrounding national security and the urgent need for a robust defense budget.

Rogers emphasized the gravity of the current global threats, stating, "Over the last two months, we’ve heard from each of our Combatant Commanders that the threats we face today are more complex and more formidable than at any point in the last 30 years." He pointed out how countries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are collaborating to diminish America’s influence and jeopardize national security.

The Chairman expressed specific concerns about the actions of Iran, North Korea, China, and Russia, illustrating how their partnerships and activities are impacting international dynamics. He noted, "Putin is using the assistance to keep his economy afloat and to produce the missiles, aircraft, and other weaponry that is devastating Ukraine," highlighting the concerning developments in the region.

Rogers stressed the necessity to enhance American deterrence and called for a budget that would support the modernization of the military, ensure readiness for immediate action, and enhance the quality of life for servicemembers. However, he lamented that the proposed budget fell short of meeting these critical objectives, describing it as inadequate and even constituting a cut when factoring in inflation.

Looking ahead, Rogers expressed his eagerness to delve deeper into the implications of the budget on military readiness, modernization efforts, and servicemember well-being. He underlined the importance of understanding the risks to national security posed by insufficient investment in defense.

As the nation grapples with escalating global challenges, Representative Mike Rogers' impassioned plea for a more robust defense budget serves as a stark reminder of the crucial role funding plays in maintaining America's security and deterrence capabilities.