December 6, 2007 – Even as our nation continues to ask more and more of our men and women in uniform, the percentage of the nation’s wealth that we have set aside for defense continues to decline precipitously.  Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02) today introduced a joint resolution that states “it is the policy of the United States to commit a minimum of 4 percent of the Nation’s gross domestic product to the base defense budget in order to meet the National security requirements of the United States.” Senator Dole is introducing the identical resolution in the Senate.

Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02): “Our nation’s defense budget has a long history of being a reactionary amount determined not only by current events but by the current disposition of Congress as well.  If our Department of Defense is to sustain the strongest, most well equipped and thoroughly trained military in the entire world, it is absolutely crucial in looking forward to future threats that it not be dependent on the politically expedient whims of Congress.  We face a relentless and ever evolving terrorist threat, and our economy cannot afford to not ensure that our men and women in armed services have everything they need to provide for the nation’s defense.  The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Admiral Mullen, and numerous other military leaders concur that this bill would provide the necessary resources to our military, and I thank Senator Dole and those in Congress who have already voiced strong support of this critical legislation.”

Congressman Phil Gingrey (GA-11): “Providing for the safety and defense of our nation is the fundamental responsibility of the Congress, and therefore Congress must provide a budget that is proactive in anticipating future threats to our homeland, and not merely reactive to threats that suddenly emerge.  We must ensure that our men and women in uniform have the resources they need to win the Global War on Terror, and that the Defense Department has the resources it needs to fund weapons systems critical to the defense of our nation.  Military leaders such as Admiral Mullen have called on us to commit 4% of our nation’s GDP to our defense budget, and we must heed these calls.”

Congressman Randy Kuhl (NY-29):  “It is vital that we ensure our country has funding to sustain a strong defense, while still maintaining a balanced budget.  By committing at least four percent of our GDP to defense spending, we are preparing our military for emerging threats and challenges.”

Congressman Gresham Barrett (SC-03): “Funding our country’s defense system is vital. The military must be funded properly to continue to protect and secure our nation’s right to freedom. Committing 4 percent of the GDP for defense spending will ensure that resources are provided for our brave soldiers and will demonstrate the confidence the American people have in their military men and women.”

Congressman Steve King (IA-05): “Our constitutional republic was founded so that government’s first role would be to ensure our national security.  Those who think that evil does not exist and reject defense spending have always been proven wrong at the cost of American lives.  Now is the time to invest in America’s defense.”

Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05): “In the 1960’s, as much as 9 percent of the GDP was committed to the defense budget.  However, that percentage has steadily decreased to a low of about 3 percent during the 1990’s.  As our enemies are growing in strength and capability, committing a mere 4 percent of our GDP to defense is a rather humble funding reservation to ensure our national security and our freedom.”

Congressman Jim Saxton (NJ-03): “To demonstrate that Americans are serious about national security, we need to codify in law that an absolute minimum 4% of our GDP is allocated for our nation’s defense budget. To put this in perspective, the National Retail Federation recently estimated that 2007 holiday retail sales in the U.S. will hit around $474.5 Billion, or approximately 3.4% of the GDP. A “Four Percent for Defense of Freedom” pledge to our armed forces will send a clear message on the part of the American people that we are steadfast in our commitment to the security of this nation.”

Congressman Jim Marshall (GA-08): “At a time when our armed forces are deployed overseas in combat, it’s important to ensure they have the resources and equipment to answer any call – both for today and tomorrow.”

The President of the Military Officers Association of America VADM Norb Ryan (USN-Ret.), stated, "Defense spending of at least 4% of GDP is critical to maintaining a strong national defense, and MOAA is 100% behind Senator Dole's and Congressman Franks's joint resolution."  

 For further information or to obtain a copy of the Resolution, please contact Bethany Barker at 202-226-1178, Bethany.barker@mail.house.gov.