National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027

Floor Speech

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Mr. SORENSEN. Madam Chair, I rise today in strong opposition to Representative Boebert's amendment.

I am proud to live in an Army town, and I am the only LGBTQ person to serve on the House Committee on Armed Services.

I find it outrageous that this Commander in Chief and his loyalists want to kick true Americans out of the military for a reason that does not pertain to a person's capability as an effective soldier, sailor, airman, or marine--all because they think there is something inferior or less than if you are trans.

We know what happens in our country when we lose the most qualified members. We saw it during Don't Ask Don't Tell. LGBTQ servicemembers are critical and essential to our Armed Forces.

When any American is called to serve our country, there should be no requirements other than can you do the job and exceed the expectation.

I really don't understand how you can justify this. On one side, hiring should only be by merit, but then on the other side of your mouth, you only want harmful restrictions on those who are highly qualified for the work.

One of the greatest things about being American is being one of many.

In 250 years, we know the value of our country is marked by the service and the sacrifices of those who came before.

Playing politics isn't just cruel because it discriminates. It is cruel because it puts other servicemembers at risk.

I urge my colleagues to reject this amendment because all Americans who serve should be able to serve with dignity, respect, and our Nation's thanks.

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