Wagner Votes to Strengthen National Security, Support Missouri Defense Priorities

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement after she voted in support of the National Defense Authorization Act: 

“Our adversaries have made it clear they intend to exert their own reckless influence around the globe at the expense of our nation’s safety and security.  The stability of our world and the safety of Americans here at home and worldwide depends on our military being an effective deterrent to dictators who seek to expand their power at all costs.  I voted in support of today’s National Defense Authorization Act to support our military at a critical time in history and bolster our national security, deter destructive nations like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, and ensure America’s military remains the strongest in the world. 

“Today’s NDAA will bring significant investments to the major St. Louis-area programs to the tune of $4 billion, including $2.6 billion for the F-47 fighter jet, $460 million for MQ-25 Stingray refueling drone procurement, $400 million for F-18 modifications and sustainment, $372 million for F-15 procurement, and $187 million for JDAM procurement. 

“This bill also increases much-needed resources for our troops, including a pay raise for all service members and new barracks and family housing to support the family members who sacrifice when their spouse and parents are away fighting for our freedoms.  The NDAA also expands access to sexual assault forensic kits and programs to prevent and punish sexual misconduct. 

“This vote authorizes $2.7 billion to bolster our defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific to prevent China from growing its already dangerously expansive influence.  We also fought to include important funding to support our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel, in the form of $70 million in anti-drone initiatives and full funding for joint U.S.-Israel defense programs like the Iron Dome and David’s Sling.  And in another win for our area and the Bosnian-American community, I’m happy to say this bill codifies important sanctions to promote peace in the Western Balkans, language I have championed through my bill to protect Bosnia’s Dayton Peace Agreement.”