Issue Position: National Defense

Issue Position

Keeping America safe is Congressman Rooney's top priority. He has the honor and privilege of serving on both the House Armed Services and Intelligence Committees. As an Army veteran the Congressman understands the importance of ensuring that the men and women of the military have the support they need to achieve their mission.

Congressman Rooney recognizes that we live in a dangerous world with enemies across the globe who wish to do us harm. He strongly opposes significant cuts to defense spending, which American generals and military leaders have said would jeopardize national security and put lives at risk. He has also worked to eliminate wasteful spending within the Pentagon's budget that could be cut without harming national security. For example, he led the fight to end the extra engine program for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, saving taxpayers billions of dollars. However, he firmly believes we cannot ask our military to shoulder the burden of large spending cuts without sacrificing national security.

Congressman Rooney has traveled to Iraq and Afghanistan to meet and talk to troops on the ground. He believes we have the most professional and talented fighting force in the world. During his travels and in talking with troops, one theme rang true -- the backbone of the fighting force is the military family. Supporting the families of our Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen is essential to preserving a robust and effective all volunteer force.

One very important issue for Tom is ensuring that returning war-fighters receive the health care they earned and deserve. He has been a tireless advocate bringing awareness to the growing number of troops and veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, depression, and other invisible wounds. Shortly after coming to Congress, Rooney introduced a bill to require troops returning from deployment to receive face-to-face, confidential screenings with mental health professionals. He worked with fellow House Armed Services Committee members and members of the Appropriations Committee to have that language written into law. He also worked to increase funding for mental health services and treatment, and to expand access to licensed mental health professionals for Tricare beneficiaries.

Congressman Rooney has supported numerous pieces of legislation that benefit our troops, military families, wounded warriors and veterans. He promises to continue to work hard to ensure our military has the capabilities and resources necessary to overcome the evolving challenges of protecting America.

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