Investing in the Future of America’s Defense
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is the cornerstone of our national security, as it authorizes annual funding for programs within the Department of Defense and the defense industry. By passing the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) this week, House Republicans are ensuring our military receives the necessary funding and equipment crucial to supporting our servicemembers as they defend our freedom. While Russia, China, and other bad actors continue to threaten democracy around the world, the United States must remain the global leader in defense.
As it does every year, the FY26 NDAA continues to strongly invest in the defense programs housed right here in the Fourth District in East Camden. This support is vital for our local economy and employs hundreds of Arkansans. I am always proud to support any legislation that is good for Arkansas and defends America. This bill certainly achieves both goals.
Our service members stand sentinel at freedom’s gate, sacrificing everything so we may live in a free and prosperous nation. In his 1983 address to the country, Ronald Reagan said, “Veterans know better than anyone else the price of freedom, for they’ve suffered the scars of war. We can offer them no better tribute than to protect what they have won for us.” As stewards of our nation’s purse, Congress has the duty and privilege of ensuring our service members receive the support they need to continue protecting the freedoms our nation has been blessed with.
Whether it be updated equipment, better facilities for our troops, or a more streamlined process for manufacturing, the FY26 NDAA supports our military where it matters, and invests in our workforce who depend on the defense industry to earn a living. Our nation has a proud history of defending democracy around the world. This piece of legislation ensures that we are meeting the demands and challenges of today while equipping the generations to come as they take on the mantle to protect our great legacy.
As we approach the 250th anniversary of America’s freedom, we reflect on the principles that served as the blueprint for our nation today. Our Constitution’s preamble presents a mandate to ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity. This week, House Republicans put pen to paper, answering this call to action as we passed the annual National Defense Authorization Act to provide the resources to ensure that our homeland and democracy across the globe will be protected and secured for our children and grandchildren.