Gluesenkamp Perez Statement on National Defense Authorization Act

Today, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) released the following statement after she voted with her bipartisan colleagues to pass the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act:

“Today, I joined my bipartisan colleagues to pass this year’s NDAA, which will fully fund our Armed Forces and invest in our servicemembers’ wellbeing and quality of life.

Our freedoms depend on the ability to protect our citizens and borders – and it is essential to maintain military readiness amid threats to democracy and sovereignty across the globe. This legislation will also honor the dedication and grit of our servicemembers and their families by making new investments in childcare access, healthcare services, and military housing.

It shouldn’t be difficult for our military families to put food on the table or pay the bills, yet compensation isn’t always enough to overcome the squeeze of rapid inflation. This NDAA will enact a pay raise for all servicemembers, including a 14.5 percent increase for junior enlisted servicemembers who answer the call to serve.

Unfortunately, some viewed this legislation not as an opportunity to honor our servicemembers, but instead to wage divisive culture wars – so I voted against these harmful amendments when they came to the floor this summer. Nevertheless, it is our duty to protect the livelihoods of our brave servicemembers and ensure our Armed Forces remain capable and ready to defend our nation, which is why I voted for the legislation.”