Green Bay Reporter

Dec 14 2023

Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee's Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation, has successfully secured major wins in the FY2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill, which has passed the House in a bipartisan manner, is now on its way to be signed into law by President Biden.

In his role as a member of the House Armed Services Committee and subcommittee chairman, Rep. Gallagher played a crucial role in drafting this vital legislation. He has been able to secure significant victories for Northeast Wisconsin and national defense, particularly in the areas of cyber security and countering aggression from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

According to Rep. Gallagher, the current period presents a "window of maximum danger" when it comes to a potential conflict with China over Taiwan. He emphasizes that it is essential for the military to have the necessary resources to deter and, if necessary, win such a conflict. The FY2024 NDAA takes steps to address this by requiring the Pentagon to develop a strategy for deploying and utilizing long-range conventional missiles in the Indo-Pacific. It also strengthens military cybersecurity cooperation with Taiwan and enhances programs that integrate cutting-edge technologies from the private sector into the military.

Rep. Gallagher highlights that the NDAA refocuses the Pentagon on warfighting rather than "wokeness." It eliminates the Pentagon's diversity, equity, and inclusion bureaucracy, bans Critical Race Theory, and ensures that promotions within the military are based solely on merit. Additionally, the bill fully authorizes funding for two Frigates built at Marinette Marine and supports Oshkosh's medium and heavy tactical vehicles, ensuring the important role played by hardworking Wisconsinites in national defense.

While acknowledging the significance of the NDAA, Rep. Gallagher stresses that it is not sufficient on its own to address the growing national security threats worldwide. He notes that operating under Continuing Resolutions has hindered the ability of the military and defense industrial base to effectively carry out their duties. He urges Congress to pass a defense appropriations bill that fully funds the priorities outlined in the NDAA. Failure to do so would restrict the capabilities of the military and significantly damage America's ability to protect its citizens and interests globally.

The bill includes various provisions that benefit Wisconsin and support innovation in the military. These provisions include authorizing over $2 billion for Marinette to build two Frigates, fully supporting the Family of Medium and Heavy Tactical Vehicles, and elevating the Defense Innovation Unit within the Department of Defense to strengthen warfighting capabilities.

The NDAA also includes several China-related provisions led by Rep. Gallagher or relating to the work of the Select Committee on the CCP and its Ten for Taiwan report. These provisions address issues such as banning the federal operation and procurement of DJI drones, enhancing cross-strait deterrence through military cybersecurity cooperation with Taiwan, and advancing Congressional oversight of Taiwan Foreign Military Sales.

Rep. Gallagher's efforts in strengthening national defense and addressing the challenges posed by China are commendable. The passage of the NDAA is an important step, but it is crucial for Congress to remain in Washington, D.C., and pass the necessary funding for the bill. This will ensure that the military has the resources it needs and that the defense industrial base can effectively fulfill its role in building the weapons and equipment required for national security.

To find out more, go to this link: https://gallagher.house.gov/media/press-releases/gallagher-congress-should-celebrate-ndaa-passage-staying-dc-and-passing