Jenkins Supports Legislation To Provide Funding To Troops; Urges President Obama To Listen To Commanders On The Ground

Press Release

Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins today voted for the FY 2010 National Defense Authorization Act. The bill passed by a vote of 281-146.

"We have American troops fighting two wars right now. They are fighting to protect us from harm and to prevent another attack on American soil," Jenkins said. "The district I represent in Kansas has a strong military presence, and I will do everything I can to make sure our troops on the ground have the best possible equipment, training and support to enable them to undertake their missions."

The FY 2010 National Defense Authorization Act provides critical funding to General Stanley McChrystal, the senior commander of U.S. and international troops in Afghanistan, to be successful in the war. This legislation includes a 3.4 percent across-the-board pay raise for troops, and prohibits any premium increases to TRICARE Prime and Standard plans.

"While Congress has the responsibility to provide funding and resources to our troops, President Obama has the responsibility to take advice and then map out a plan so our troops can be successful," Jenkins said. "General McChrystal recently outlined a strategy for Afghanistan that calls for additional troops. Deciding to send troops to the frontlines of war is probably one of the most difficult decisions any President would have to make, and I strongly urge President Obama to listen to his commanders on the ground."

Jenkins continued, "It is extremely disappointing that the Democrat leadership used this important legislation to force through their controversial hate crimes legislation. While I oppose this provision, the entire bill provides essential resources for our men and women in uniform and I will always support our troops."

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