Category: Capitol Hill Watch

Capitol Hill is the seat of the U.S. government, home to the domed United States Capitol, Senate, Houses of Representatives and the neoclassical Supreme Court. Capitol Hill Watch covers the news, current and pending legislation of interest to the Americans for a Stronger Navy.

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How a Single Senator is Jeopardizing Our Naval Leadership and Security

We at the Americans for a Stronger Navy are deeply concerned about the current situation in the Senate, where more than 300 military nominations are being blocked by a single senator. This unprecedented and irresponsible action is putting our national security and our naval capabilities at risk.

The Senate Hold: What Is It and Why Is It Happening?

A Senate hold is a parliamentary procedure that allows any senator to delay or prevent a vote on a nomination or a bill. It is not a rule, but a courtesy that the Senate leadership usually honors. However, it can also be abused for political or personal reasons.

That is what Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama is doing. He has placed a hold on more than 300 military nominations since February 2023, demanding that the Pentagon reverse its decision to cancel a contract with an Alabama company that was supposed to build a new missile defense system. The contract was canceled due to cost overruns, technical failures, and ethical violations.

Senator Tuberville claims that he is fighting for the jobs and the security of his state, but he is actually hurting the entire country and the military services that he claims to support. He is holding hostage the careers and the futures of hundreds of officers who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation.

The Impact of the Hold: How It Affects Our Military Services and Our National Security

Ladies and gentlemen, to tackle the national-security challenges of the 21st century, we need our Navy more than ever,” Austin said. “It’s especially vital in today’s world.”

As you may have heard, Admiral Michael Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, relinquished his command on Monday, August 14, after serving for four years as the Navy’s top admiral. He was praised by Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin for his dedication to advancing American sea power at a critical time for global security.

However, his nominated successor, Admiral Lisa Franchetti, has not been confirmed by the Senate due to the hold imposed by Senator Tuberville. Franchetti, who has been serving as the Vice Chief of Naval Operations since September 2022, would become the first female CNO and the first woman on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, if confirmed.

She is not the only one affected by this hold. The Army and the Marine Corps are also operating without confirmed leaders, as General Randy George and General Eric Smith are also waiting for their confirmations. This is the first time in history that three military services are without Senate-confirmed chiefs.

This is unacceptable and dangerous. The hold is undermining our military readiness, hindering our ability to retain our best officers, and upending the lives of far too many military families. It is also hampering our efforts to deter conflict and keep the peace in the Indo-Pacific region, where we rely on our Navy to sail, fly, and operate wherever international law allows.

The Solution: How We Can End the Hold and Confirm Our Military Leaders

We urge Senator Tuberville to lift his hold immediately and allow these highly qualified and experienced officers to assume their rightful positions.

We also urge all senators to fulfill their constitutional duty and confirm these nominations without further delay. Our national security and our naval strength depend on it.

We thank Admiral Gilday for his service and his leadership, and we wish him all the best in his retirement. We also congratulate Admiral Franchetti on her nomination and we hope to see her confirmed soon as the next CNO.

We also ask you, our readers and supporters, to join us in this cause.

Please contact your senators and express your support for the Navy and the military nominations. You can find their contact information by clicking here.

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our Navy and our military have the leaders they deserve.

Thank you for your support and your attention.
Sincerely,
Americans for a Stronger Navy

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Steadying the Helm: Senator Wicker’s Call for a Resilient U.S. Navy Amidst Rising Global Challenges

Introduction U.S. Senator Roger Wicker stressed the urgency for the U.S. to bolster its naval capabilities, given China’s growing naval threat. This issue isn’t merely military; it’s pivotal for our nation’s global standing.

Significance of a Strong U.S. Navy:

  1. Historical Influence: America’s global prominence has long been linked to naval power.
  2. Strategic Importance: A dominant Navy is crucial for deterrence, especially in the Western Pacific.
  3. Economic Implications: Controlling sea lanes ensures economic prosperity.
  4. Regional Stability: A potent naval presence maintains a balanced power in the Asia-Pacific region.

State of Affairs:

  • China aims to have the world’s largest fleet of warships.
  • The U.S. naval fleet is under pressure as ships are retired rapidly.
  • China’s dominance in vital sea routes can disrupt global trade and diplomatic relations.

Key Advocacies from Senator Wicker:

  1. Infrastructure Investments: Directing funds for shipbuilding.
  2. Modern Capabilities: Implementing advanced technologies to enhance naval strength.
  3. Backing Successful Initiatives: Championing programs that deter threats effectively.

Legislative Watch: Senator Wicker is actively pushing for:

  1. The SHIPYARD Act for a $25 billion investment in shipbuilding.
  2. Increased support for the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program.
  3. Naval upgrades, such as unmanned platforms and long-range munitions.
  4. Funding for amphibious ships in the upcoming NDAA.

Questions for Senator Wicker:

  1. How does the Senate plan to rectify the naval imbalance promptly?
  2. Can private industries assist in the naval revitalization efforts?
  3. Beyond funds, what policy shifts are needed for a swift naval upgrade?
  4. What are the strategies to ensure the U.S. Navy’s competitiveness?
  5. How are international relations being used to enhance naval strengths?

Conclusion: The peace of the free world hinges on our Navy’s strength. We must remain informed and active, ensuring a robust Navy for the years ahead.

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Strengthening America’s Navy: Together Towards a Secure Indo-Pacific

Lindsey Ford, deputy assistant secretary of defense for South and Southeast Asia, speaks with Navy Rear Adm. Mark Melson, commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73, and Navy Capt. Frank Okata, Singapore Area Coordinator, about the amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha during a scheduled visit to Singapore Naval Installation, Jan. 17.

Dear Members and Subscribers,

We are excited to reach out to you today as Americans for a Stronger Navy, an organization dedicated to advocating for a robust and capable United States Navy. We believe that a strong navy is not only vital to our nation’s security but also plays a crucial role in safeguarding global stability and prosperity. Recent events have underscored the importance of our mission, and we want to share with you why this matters to each of us, our organization, the Navy, and the rest of the world.

The Changing Landscape:

The Indo-Pacific region, spanning vast territories and diverse nations, is at the forefront of global geopolitical challenges. We cannot ignore the rapid rise of China, which actively seeks to challenge the international rules-based order established after World War II. The United States, together with our allies and partners, must respond decisively to protect our interests, ensure regional stability, and uphold the principles that have guided us for decades.

The Role of the United States Navy:

The United States Navy has long been the cornerstone of American power projection and influence in the Indo-Pacific. It has played a pivotal role in maintaining peace and stability throughout the region. However, as the security environment evolves, so too must our naval capabilities and strategies. We need a strong and modern navy that can deter potential threats, protect our national interests, and respond effectively to emerging challenges.

What Just Took Place:

Recent developments have highlighted the urgency of this mission. The Center of Strategic and International Studies 2023 Indo-Pacific Conference shed light on the significance of our network of allies and friends in the region. It emphasized that our military presence has been a force for stability and prosperity, countering notions that it is destabilizing or provocative. Our allies and partners have expressed a keen interest in a more robust U.S. presence, reinforcing the importance of our role in the Indo-Pacific.

Our Advocacy and Your Support:

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we are committed to advocating for a stronger United States Navy and a comprehensive strategy tailored to the Indo-Pacific. We believe that by strengthening our naval capabilities, enhancing alliances, and engaging with regional partners, we can effectively address the evolving challenges in the region. Our advocacy extends beyond military strength, as we recognize the significance of a multilateral approach that promotes dialogue, cooperation, and collective security.

Your support is crucial to our mission. By joining our cause, you contribute to the effort to bolster America’s naval capabilities and advance our nation’s strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a secure future for ourselves, our allies, and the entire world.

Conclusion:

As we navigate an ever-changing world, a strong United States Navy remains essential to protect our interests, promote stability, and uphold the values we hold dear. Through our advocacy efforts, we aim to reinforce the significance of a robust naval presence in the Indo-Pacific and engage with our allies and partners to build a resilient security network. We invite you to join us in this critical endeavor and help shape a future where a stronger navy contributes to a safer and more prosperous world.

Thank you for your continued support.

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Anchoring Alliances: How Dr. Colin Kahl’s Diplomatic Voyage Bolsters U.S. Naval Strength and Shields America

Under Secretary of Defense for Policy – D.r. Colin Kahl

Introduction

As the waves of change surge through the geopolitical landscape, America’s naval strength stands as an unyielding bulwark safeguarding peace and freedom. The recent journey undertaken by Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Dr. Colin Kahl to the Indo-Pacific, Republic of Korea, and Japan embodies a chapter in the tireless endeavor to reinforce maritime security. This article will unfurl the sails of Dr. Kahl’s voyage, underlining its crucial aspects and how it interlocks with the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy – fostering a robust and dynamic U.S. naval force that secures American shores and maintains stability in international waters.

Summary

Dr. Colin Kahl’s diplomatic expedition across the Indo-Pacific, Republic of Korea, and Japan serves as a testament to the U.S. commitment in fortifying its naval capabilities and alliances. This article navigates through the key engagements and discussions that have set sail for an era of increased defense cooperation, regional stability, and an unwavering commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Strengthening Ties with Indo-Pacific Command

In Hawaii, Under Secretary Kahl dived into significant engagements with senior officials at the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. These discussions and site visits with U.S. military personnel are essential in gaining first-hand insights into the strategic challenges and triumphs in the region, setting the stage for future collaboration and maritime defense augmentation.

Solidifying the U.S.-ROK Alliance

Under Secretary Kahl’s rendezvous in the Republic of Korea (ROK) underscores the immense progress made in reinforcing extended deterrence through the U.S.-ROK Alliance. Visiting the Joint Security Area within the Demilitarized Zone, and attending a U.S.-ROK combined exercise, his journey illustrates the U.S.’s unwavering commitment to the defense of the ROK.

Historic Engagements in Japan

Japan, a vital ally, hosted Under Secretary Kahl as they discussed historic steps to strengthen and modernize the U.S.-Japan Alliance. This partnership has been the cornerstone of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, and his visit exemplifies the U.S.’s dedication to cementing this bond further.

Networking Alliances for Mutual Security

Under Secretary Kahl’s planned engagements addressed mutual security challenges, providing avenues to escalate defense cooperation and networking with like-minded partners. This is a key step in establishing a cohesive front against any maritime threats.

Key Takeaways

  • Under Secretary Kahl’s trip underlines the importance of strong alliances in maintaining naval strength and regional stability.
  • Engagements with Indo-Pacific Command, Republic of Korea, and Japan emphasize the U.S.’s commitment to safeguarding peace and security.
  • Networking of alliances paves the way for a united front in maritime defense.

Conclusion

As the tides of uncertainty ebb and flow, a resolute and formidable U.S. naval force remains paramount. Dr. Colin Kahl’s diplomatic mission paints a vivid picture of America’s resolve to strengthen its alliances and maritime defense. The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is steadfast in its mission, and this recent development embodies the very essence of what we stand for. We call upon our fellow Americans to hoist the flag of support and subscribe to be part of this noble cause. Together, as guardians of freedom and peace, let us chart a course for a secure and prosperous future.

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Better Economic Opportunities for Military Spouses Focus of New Executive Order

Fort Liberty, North Carolina – In a significant move to support military and veteran spouses, caregivers, and survivors, President Biden signed a new executive order today at Fort Liberty, North Carolina. The executive order, one of the “most consequential” actions taken by the Biden administration, aims to strengthen economic opportunities for these individuals and ensure their inclusion in the workforce.

Accompanied by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, President Biden emphasized the far-reaching impact of military service on families and commended the resilience and dedication of military spouses. The executive order’s provisions extend beyond military spouses of active service members to include veterans’ spouses, caregivers, and survivors, recognizing their unique challenges and contributions.

“We’re asking agencies to make it easier for spouses employed by the federal government to take administrative leave, telework, and move offices,” stated Dr. Jill Biden. “We’re creating resources to support entrepreneurs. And the executive order helps agencies and companies retain military spouses through telework or when they move abroad.”

The executive order, which has been in the works for over a year, encompasses various initiatives to enhance the hiring and retention of military and veterans’ spouses in federal government roles. Additionally, it promotes employment opportunities for these individuals outside the federal government, improves access to childcare for military families, and facilitates remote work options for military spouses stationed overseas.

Cara Abercrombie, deputy assistant to the president and the National Security Council’s coordinator for defense policy and arms control, outlined key components of the executive order. One of the primary actions is the development of a governmentwide strategic plan focused on the hiring and retention of military and veteran spouses, caregivers, and survivors. The plan will leverage the talents, experiences, and diversity of these individuals, emphasizing performance benchmarks and accountability.

Furthermore, federal agencies will include military spouse non-competitive appointment authority in their job postings. This streamlines the hiring process and enables expedited employment of qualified military spouses.

To address the challenges faced by military spouses, especially when their service members are deployed overseas, the executive order emphasizes the importance of telework options. It mandates agencies to establish governmentwide standards that facilitate remote work accessibility for military spouses residing with their service members stationed abroad.

Recognizing the significance of childcare for military families, the executive order calls for the implementation of dependent care flexible saving accounts for service members and the expansion of pathways for military spouses to provide home-based childcare on military installations.

Education for hiring managers is another crucial aspect of the executive order. It ensures that those responsible for hiring understand the unique circumstances and obstacles encountered by military and veterans’ spouses, caregivers, and survivors.

The executive order’s content was heavily influenced by the Joining Forces initiative, spearheaded by Dr. Jill Biden and former First Lady Michelle Obama in 2011. Joining Forces has engaged with military spouses nationwide over the past two years, actively seeking their input on the support needed to secure and maintain employment while caring for their families. The insights gained from these conversations have directly informed the provisions of the executive order.

“Filled with solutions inspired directly by the conversations Joining Forces had with the military-connected spouses and children because these families know what they need,” said Dr. Jill Biden.

The executive order marks a significant step toward providing better economic opportunities for military and veteran spouses, caregivers, and survivors. It highlights the administration’s commitment to supporting military families and seeks to engage employers across the country in recruiting and retaining this skilled and passionate community. Through flexible and portable opportunities, the executive order aims to empower these individuals and ensure their contributions are valued and recognized in the workforce.⁹

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Austin Reiterates U.S. Commitment to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III

On June 5th, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III stated that the United States will persist in collaborating with regional allies to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific, amid ongoing challenges from China. This statement was made in Singapore during the esteemed Shangri-La Dialogue, a paramount congregation of defense ministers and experts from the region. Austin’s remarks reflect the U.S. military’s primary focus on the Indo-Pacific, with China being viewed as the pacing challenge.

The Strategic Budget and Investment in Indo-Pacific

The Pentagon’s budget request, according to Austin, is tied directly to their strategic plans, emphasizing their continued investment in the Indo-Pacific region. This includes the deployment of the United States’ most advanced and competent weapon systems. The Defense Department has allocated over $9 billion towards the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, along with additional investments into region-specific research such as hypersonics, deterrence of cyber threats, and more.

Austin Expresses Concern Over China’s Actions

Despite General Li Shangfu, China’s Defense Minister’s statements at the event, Austin emphasized that observing China’s actions is more consequential than listening to their words. Austin further voiced his concern about China’s “irresponsible behavior” in the South China Sea, pointing to instances of close intercepts and coercive behavior.

Significantly, he noted recent incidents involving a Chinese ship’s dangerous proximity to the USS Chung Hoon and a Canadian vessel in the Taiwan Strait, and the interception of a U.S. Air Force reconnaissance aircraft by a Chinese aircraft in international airspace. Austin called on leadership to regulate such conduct to prevent potential accidents that could escalate into uncontrollable situations.

The Need for Clear Communication

Drawing parallels with the April 2001 P-3 incident, where a Chinese pilot collided with a Navy P-3 aircraft leading to a diplomatic crisis, Austin stressed the importance of clear communication to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Importance of Navigational Freedom

Highlighting the importance of navigational freedom, Austin stressed that these operations the United States and other nations engage in are perfectly legal. He indicated that China should be interested in this freedom as well, considering they also use the international commons.

The Diplomatic Hurdle

Austin revealed that Chinese defense leaders have declined invitations to meet, stating U.S. sanctions against Li Shangfu as the reason. Austin noted that despite personal sanctions in Russia, he could, if he wanted, communicate with the Russian minister of defense.

Key Takeaways

  • The U.S. maintains its commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region, with significant budget allocations to ensure strategic readiness.
  • U.S. Secretary of Defense Austin expresses concern over China’s recent actions in the South China Sea and calls for responsible conduct.
  • Austin underscores the importance of clear communication to prevent incidents that could escalate tensions.
  • Austin emphasizes the significance of navigational freedom and points out China’s dependence on the same.
  • Despite U.S. sanctions against Li Shangfu, Austin notes the potential for diplomatic communication, drawing a comparison to his situation with Russia.

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Americans for a Stronger Navy Proudly Announces the Addition of Two Destroyer Ships in Southern Spain

Introduction

Americans for a Stronger Navy Proudly Announces the Addition of Two Destroyer Ships in Southern Spain:

The United States and Spain have announced an agreement to increase the number of destroyers based in southern Spain from four to six.

The destroyers are used for various missions, including ballistic missile defense and anti-aircraft warfare.

The United States and Spain have announced an agreement to strengthen their bilateral strategic relationship by increasing the number of destroyers based in southern Spain from four to six.

Strengthening the U.S.-Spain Strategic Relationship

This commitment follows the pledge made by President Joe Biden and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at a meeting on the margins of the NATO Summit in Madrid.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to be part of the Navy community and to support this effort.

Summary:

The United States has announced that it will add two destroyer ships to its fleet based in southern Spain, bringing the total to six. These ships are used for various missions, including ballistic missile defense and anti-aircraft warfare.

The agreement to increase the number of destroyers is part of a broader effort to strengthen the strategic relationship between the United States and Spain.

Key Takeaways:

  • The agreement is part of a broader effort to strengthen the strategic relationship between the United States and Spain.
  • The agreement is part of a broader effort to strengthen the strategic relationship between the United States and Spain.
  • The U.S. destroyers based at the Rota naval base in Cadiz are the only ones with a permanent home port in Europe. The ships are positioned to make daily operations in various missions, including ballistic missile defence and anti-aircraft warfare, the U.S. embassy said in a statement.

Conclusion:

Proud to Support the U.S. Navy Community
Americans for a Stronger Navy: Informing and Inspiring Readers to Rally Around the Cause.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to support the United States and Spain in their effort to strengthen their strategic relationship. The addition of two destroyer ships to the fleet based in southern Spain is a significant accomplishment and demonstrates the commitment of both countries to global security.

We encourage our readers to learn more about the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization and to support our efforts to inform and inspire Americans to rally around the importance of a strong Navy.


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Department of the Navy FY 2024 President’s Budget: A Stronger Navy Ahead

The Department of the Navy has released its FY 2024 President’s Budget, which aims to build a stronger and more capable Navy. The budget includes a total funding request of 8$211.7 billion, with a focus on modernization, readiness, and innovation.

One of the key takeaways from the budget is the emphasis on investing in new technologies and capabilities, such as unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and cyber warfare. This reflects the Navy’s recognition that future conflicts will be fought in multiple domains, including the digital realm.

The Department of the Navy’s (DON) FY 2024 President’s Budget (PB24) request is $255.8B, an increase of $11.1B or 4.5% from the FY 2023 enacted budget.

  • The FY 2024 President’s Budget for the Department of the Navy has a total funding request of $211.7 billion.
  • The budget prioritizes modernization, readiness, and innovation.
  • The Navy aims to invest in new technologies and capabilities such as unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and cyber warfare.
  • The budget emphasizes readiness by increasing the number of ships and aircraft in the fleet and investing in maintenance and training programs.
  • PmThe Navy plans to improve infrastructure and facilities, including shipyards, naval bases, and research facilities.

Overall, the budget demonstrates a commitment to building a stronger and more capable Navy, ready to face the challenges of the 21st century.

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Increased Cyber-attacks and other Forms of Aggression to U.S.

Republican lawmakers have sounded the alarm on the growing threats to the US from China, Russia, and Iran according to news reports today. The lawmakers released a report highlighting the challenges faced by the US military, including increased cyber-attacks and other forms of aggression.

Some of the key takeaways from the report include the need to increase funding for the military to counter these threats, the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the challenges posed by China and Russia, and the need to prioritize cybersecurity to prevent future attacks.

This report is of interest to Americans for a Stronger Navy because it underscores the importance of a strong and well-funded military, particularly in the face of growing foreign threats. As one of the primary advocates for a stronger Navy, this report reinforces the need for continued investment in naval power to protect American interests both at home and abroad.