WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement regarding the release of President Biden’s topline request for fiscal year 2024.

“President Biden’s topline request addresses a complex range of national security and national defense challenges, from strategic competition with China and Russia, to addressing challenges posed by rogue actors and violent extremist organizations, and climate change.

“It focuses on the need for federal investment in crucial areas such as force modernization, military readiness, and infrastructure, with important emphasis on recruiting and retention, emerging technologies, and our defense industrial base. It calls for continued cooperation with allies and partners around the world. And it proposes a 5.2 percent average pay raise for military service members, the backbone of our national defense strategy.

“As one of the largest budget requests in history, it seeks to balance the need to ensure our ability to respond effectively to evolving defense challenges with a trained, ready, and capable military force while remaining respectful of the resources needed to meet America’s full budgetary needs.

“I look forward to receiving further details in the coming days, and to working with my colleagues to craft a responsible and balanced National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024.”

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