Matt Doheny, a steadfast advocate for a strong national defense, said today he will advocate for the government to choose Fort Drum as a missile interceptor site when elected.
"If our military leaders decide an east coast base is needed to protect our country from Middle East missile attacks, I'll make it a priority to make sure Fort Drum is the site they choose," said Doheny, the Republican, Conservative and Independence parties' candidate in the 21st Congressional District. "This could be a more than $3 billion investment in our community, which will strengthen the military's commitment to the north country. We have smart and capable people at Fort Drum, and they are well equipped to take on this important mission. I will do everything possible to make this a reality."
While Doheny's Democratic opponent has been publicly expressing caution about the idea, he's been voting against needed funds for the project.
Bill Owens supported an Armed Services Committee amendment May 9 which would have stopped the Secretary of Defense from reviewing potential sites and making a location operational by 2015. His effort was rejected and the necessary funding was included in the defense bill. Last Wednesday, he supported an amendment that would reduce the missile interceptor program by $75 million (Roll Call #477). That amendment failed.
"Bill Owens let his ideology get in the way of what is right for Fort Drum and passed on what could be a significant economic boon for this region," concluded Doheny. "We need a congressman who will do what is right for the base and work harder than anyone to keep it strong. I am that person. My opponent has proved he is not."