Issue Position: Defense

Issue Position

With our National Guard, Reserve, and active duty troops fighting wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and supporting missions around the globe, it's critical that we Defense page pic - fullhave a well-trained military ready to meet the challenges of war in the 21st century. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I have fought for resources that will keep our military strong, our nation secure, and ensure our troops have the equipment they need to stay safe and do their jobs.

I strongly believe that Congress must act as a watchdog to ensure our service members are getting the services, benefits, medical care, and family support they have earned, especially as thousands of troops return from battle suffering from devastating physical and psychological injuries. I have pushed the military and the VA to update their mental health care and suicide-prevention services. I helped lead the fight to improve conditions and services at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and other military hospitals. And I fought hard with my Senate colleagues to update education and training benefits for returning service members by passing the most sweeping changes to the G.I. Bill in 40 years.

My Priorities

* Ensuring that service members have the training, equipment, services, and benefits they deserve, both in the field and at home.
* Taking care of military families by ensuring access to critical support services and benefits.
* Ensuring our wounded warriors receive the quality health care and benefits they need when they return from battle.
* Investing in Washington state military installations, and fighting for the interests of the National Guard and Reserve members nationwide.

My Accomplishments

* Worked as a senior member of the Appropriations Committee to increase funding for equipment for our troops in the field.
* Fought to increase funding for medical research and medical care, including for mental health conditions.
* Helped pass the Dignified Treatment of Wounded Warriors Act to improve coordination of care for service members transitioning from the military to the VA.
* Opposed TRICARE fee increases, worked to expand TRICARE coverage for Guard and Reserve members, and fought for increased pay for service members.
* Fought for legislation requiring military medical facilities -- including Madigan Army Medical Center -- to meet minimal standards of care for returning service members.
* Helped pass a new G.I. Bill that improves education benefits for troops and veterans who have served since Sept. 11, 2001.

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