Remarks at Defense Member Day

Today, the Subcommittee will hold an open hearing, in which all Members of the House have been invited to testify on their priorities for the Fiscal Year 2027 Department of Defense Appropriations Act. The Subcommittee receives thousands of Member requests per year.  Ranking Member McCollum and Chair Calvert carefully review these requests from both sides of the aisle.  We all take our constitutional responsibility to provide for our Nation’s defense seriously and will work to build the best bill in support of that responsibility. 

As we are all well aware, the world is in chaos.  Therefore, it is vital that the United States have the capabilities and capacity to respond to those who wish us harm.  Fiscal Year 2026 was filled with numerous challenges, such as tardy budget roll-out and navigating reconciliation, however ultimately, we were able to pass a bipartisan package.  We have an opportunity to build from last year’s work and lay the foundation for the Fiscal Year 2027 Department of Defense Appropriations Act in order to respond to these threats. 

We must continue to find ways we can work together to increase efficiencies within the Department of Defense, invest and innovate in the capabilities our servicemembers need, and provide them the quality of life they deserve. 

Please note that we have no members that have requested to testify, however we will get Congresswoman Garcia statement submitted for the record. I now recognize the distinguished Ranking Member, Ms. McCollum, for her opening remarks.