Ashford Backs Bipartisan Move Securing Nation's Defenses

Statement

Putting the country's security first and foremost Rep. Brad Ashford (NE-02), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, today voted in favor of a bipartisan bill authorizing $515 billion in national defense spending.

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2016 passed the House 269-151, with the support of 41 Democrats. This comprehensive legislation establishes Department of Defense (DOD) policy and funding.

During debate on the NDAA, Rep. Ashford was instrumental in ensuring key U.S. STRATCOM programs including nuclear command and control, space, cyber and missile defense were protected.

Unfortunately, the GOP majority removed language encouraging the DOD to allow DREAMers to serve in the military. Rep. Ashford voted to keep the DREAMER language in the legislation.

"It is truly disappointing that patriotic immigrants who want to serve and defend our country will not be afforded that opportunity," said Rep. Ashford. The bill also authorizes $89.2 billion in Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) funding, $38.3 billion more than the President had requested.

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