Defending America and its Allies

Robust Foreign Policy

I reject isolationism and protectionism, and I believe we should not pursue a policy of weakness to appease dictators and terrorists. The goal of our foreign policy should be to defend the security and strategic interests of the United States and its allies, to preserve and protect American liberty, and to defend freedom and democracy around the world. We must not abandon our allies in the post-communist world (such as Poland and the Czech Republic), nor in the developing world (such as India and Colombia).

Strong National Defense

I will vote to provide adequate funding for defense, the first responsibility of the federal government. Military strength is the safeguard of America’s liberties. It is indispensable for defending our homeland and national interests, deterring potential aggressors, strengthening our international alliances, and reinforcing our diplomatic efforts. It is an important Plan B when diplomacy fails. I will ensure that our military has what it needs to fight and win, and I will provide robust oversight to ensure the defense budget is spent wisely.

Supporting Our Troops And Veterans

I will vote to ensure that we maintain current margins of technological superiority so that our troops have whey they need to prevail against a wide range of threats. I will also vote to fund competitive compensation for military personnel and appropriate benefits for our men and women in uniform, their families, and all military retirees and veterans. I support proposals to modernize the military benefit system to provide greater flexibility and choice. I strongly oppose proposals to raid military accounts and veterans’ benefits to pay for rapidly expanding domestic programs.