Wicker Statement on Obama’s Defense Budget Proposal

February 24, 2014

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., a senior member of the Senate Committee on Armed Services, today issued the following statement on the military budget plan outlined by Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel:

“I’m astounded that President Obama intends to reduce the number of military personnel to levels not seen since before World War II. These unwarranted cuts could also force an additional burden on members of our National Guard.

“Further, I strongly oppose the proposal’s recommendation to establish a new Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC). The 2005 BRAC did not result in any tangible savings, and I am skeptical that a new BRAC round would achieve a different result.

“As a member of the Senate Armed Services and Budget committees, I will fight to ensure that our armed forces have the equipment, training, and personnel required to keep our nation secure.”