On April 20, 2024, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) stood in support of the national security supplemental bills providing crucial funding for allies in Israel, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific. Serving as the Chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, Rep. Calvert was an original cosponsor of the bills.
During the House session, Rep. Calvert advocated for the bills, emphasizing the importance of bolstering support for allies and addressing emerging threats. He stated, "This bill provides $26.38 billion to fortify America’s support of our Israeli allies and defend our troops in the region." Rep. Calvert also highlighted the significant responsibilities placed on service members worldwide to combat evolving threats.
Reflecting on the urgency of preparedness, Rep. Calvert quoted General Douglas MacArthur, stating, "the history of the failure of war can almost be summed up in two words – too late." He emphasized the need to act promptly and decisively in times of conflict to ensure the safety and security of nations and their allies.
In his address to Congress, Rep. Calvert urged his colleagues to vote in favor of the bills to enhance military readiness, reinforce alliances, and support the defense industry. He stressed the critical role of these funding measures in equipping the military to deter adversaries and safeguard national interests.
Rep. Calvert's impassioned plea resonated throughout the House chamber, underscoring the gravity of the global challenges faced by the United States and its allies. As the debate unfolded, Rep. Calvert's message of timely action and unwavering support for security funding assistance echoed among his peers.
The bipartisan support garnered for the security supplemental bills signified a united front in addressing pressing security concerns in regions vital to American interests. Rep. Calvert's advocacy for robust funding allocations underscored a commitment to bolstering defense capabilities and fortifying alliances in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
As the House of Representatives united in approving the national security supplemental bills, Rep. Calvert's call to action reverberated, resonating with a shared commitment to strengthen security cooperation with allies in Israel, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific.