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Congressional representatives

Congressman Bobby Scott Votes Against Partisan Defense Bill

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) voted against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026, citing concerns over partisan amendments that attach culture war provisions and politicize the military. The bill includes investments in shipbuilding and submarine procurement, but Scott expressed disappointment that it does not prioritize national security threats. He also highlighted the passage of his amendment requiring the Department of Defense to publish a status report on the Interagency Regional Coordinator for Resilience Pilot Program.

Key Takeaways:

  • Congressman Bobby Scott voted against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 due to partisan amendments that attack the civil rights and liberties of LGBTQ+ service members and civilian employees.
  • The bill includes significant investments in shipbuilding and submarine procurement, including $1 billion for the Carrier Replacement program, $1.6 billion for CVN-81 currently under construction, and $816 million for Virginia Class submarines.
  • Scott's amendment requiring the Department of Defense to publish a status report on the Interagency Regional Coordinator for Resilience Pilot Program was passed, which seeks to improve collaboration between DOD and defense communities in addressing rising sea levels.
  • The congressman expressed opposition to the Trump Administration's use of the U.S. military for domestic law enforcement and its politicization of the armed forces.
  • Scott hopes that the partisan amendments will be stripped out in the Senate, allowing for a worthwhile NDAA to pass.
  • The congressman praised the House Armed Services Committee for advancing a strong bill that addresses national security threats.

Statistics:

  • $1 billion allocated for the Carrier Replacement program
  • $1.6 billion allocated for CVN-81 currently under construction
  • $816 million allocated for Virginia Class submarines
  • 3.8% wage increase for military personnel
  • $816 million allocated for Virginia Class submarines

Sources:

  • Barack Obama Presidential Administration's Pentagon Press Corps
  • RealClearDefense

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