Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01), Vice Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to President Biden’s budget for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24):

“Our defense budget must match the threats we face, and those threats are steep. Under President Xi Jinping, the Chinese Communist Party has nearly tripled its defense spending, most recently announcing another defense budget increase of over 7%. This Administration has once again displayed indifference and weakness toward our national security in the budget released today.

“A robust defense budget that matches the growing threats from our adversaries is non-negotiable. Our strategy must dictate our budget – our budget cannot compromise our strategy. We face a critical period in our national security – and if we do not make the investments in our national security today, we will not be able to defend our nation in the future. 

“Our defense budget must have sustained real growth that out-paces our nation’s record inflation – failing to do so equates to a cut in real dollars. We have a responsibility to protect taxpayer dollars without compromising our military strength and readiness. Fortunately, both are possible. On the House Armed Services Committee, we are committed to finding and eradicating waste in the defense budget to ensure our dollars are being used efficiently and effectively.

“Time and time again, this administration has displayed weakness to our most aggressive adversaries who have already displayed flagrant disregard for American sovereignty. With the CCP making increased investments in their own military and Russia continuing their aggression in Ukraine, this is no time for the United States to falter. I will continue to fight for the investments needed to ensure our warfighters are prepared to meet the challenges we will continue to face.”