“It’s reprehensible. And it needs to come to an end immediately.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
July 14, 2023
CONTACT: press@iava.org

Washington, DC — The following is a statement from the CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Allison Jaslow, on the U.S. House of Representatives’ vote to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) largely along party lines. 

The NDAA, narrowly approved by the House today, initially received broad bipartisan support in the Armed Services Committee, but was subjected to late in the game partisan amendments that derailed its chances for broad bipartisan support from the full House. 

“Washington politicians made a choice today – to put partisan politics ahead of our national security, our troops and their families.

For years, the National Defense Authorization Act has consistently received broad bipartisan support in Congress. This legislation includes significant efforts that could aid retention and recruitment as the military continues to stare down a recruiting crisis. Today’s vote not only bucked bipartisan tradition, but jeopardized the future of this bill and as a result, our national security.

Our national defense is something that should unite us, not divide us. And I don’t want to believe that coming together in support of our troops and their families is a thing of the past. But, sadly, the very people who deserve the most support from us are being subjected over and over again to the blunt force of our politics. 

It’s reprehensible. And it needs to come to an end immediately.

We need leaders in Washington who get what’s at stake, and not ones who are willing to put our national security at risk for the sake of advancing their personal political views. Veterans will be watching as this process continues to unfold. We have the backs of our troops and their families, and we won’t be afraid to hold any politician accountable that uses them as a pawn in their political games.”  

IAVA is the voice for the post-9/11 veteran generation. With over 425,000 veterans and allies nationwide, IAVA is the leader in non-partisan veteran advocacy and public awareness. We drive historic impacts for veterans and IAVA’s programs are second to none. Any veteran or family member in need can reach out to IAVA’s Quick Reaction Force at quickreactionforce.org or 855-91RAPID (855-917-2743) to be connected promptly with a veteran care manager who will assist. IAVA’s The Vote Hub is a free tool to register to vote and find polling information. IAVA’s membership is always growing. Join the movement at iava.org/membership.

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