Jackson Purchase News

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell addressed the Senate floor, discussing the current legislative priorities as deadlines approach. McConnell emphasized that extending government funding by Friday is essential to avoid disruptions caused by a government shutdown. He stated, "Shutting the government down is a one-way ticket to needless disruption of important functions."

McConnell also highlighted the urgency of providing disaster relief for communities affected by recent storms, saying it is "a non-negotiable" task for the Senate.

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) was another focal point in McConnell's remarks. He noted that the Armed Services Committee had reported this year's NDAA six months ago with bipartisan support but criticized its delayed arrival on the Senate floor. "The fact that it has only reached the floor a week before Christmas is really inexcusable," McConnell remarked.

He attributed blame for these delays to the outgoing Senate majority and praised efforts by Ranking Member Wicker and others to ensure the bill supports national defense priorities effectively. However, he acknowledged compromises in the NDAA and expressed concern over budget constraints impacting military investments: "Artificial budget restraints mean that major bill provisions like a pay raise for enlisted servicemembers will come at the expense of investments in critical weapons systems and munitions."

McConnell concluded with a call for honest discussions about military needs, stating, "For all the talk about growing threats to America’s national security, it’s past time for an honest conversation about the military requirements to meet those needs." He emphasized that much work remains ahead.