Sen. Coons Disappointed Senate Fails to Consider Defense Authorization Bill

Statement

Today, Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement in response to the Senate's failure to invoke cloture to proceed to consideration of the Department of the Defense Authorization Bill:

"I am outraged that my colleagues have once again put partisan politics ahead of the critical needs of our troops and our country by blocking consideration of the defense authorization bill," Senator Coons said. "This bill provides the essential funding for our brave men and women in uniform, including vital equipment needed for our operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. It also includes a well-deserved pay raise for our troops, extends Tricare coverage for military dependents, and repeals 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.'"

"Don't Ask, Don't Tell is discrimination, plain and simple, and the majority of the military agrees that its repeal will not impact readiness or unit cohesion. Should the Senate fail to pass a Defense Authorization bill, it will mark the first time in 50 years that the Senate abdicated this responsibility to our troops. I implore my colleagues to stop playing politics and give our troops the funding and support they need and deserve."

Source