May 15, 2015

Rep. Gallego’s Statement on Republicans Vote against giving our Troops a Raise

Washington, DC – Today Congressman Ruben Gallego introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that would have locked in a 2.3% raise for our troops and guaranteed that our men and women in uniform get paid in the case of a government shutdown. The amendment failed 184-234 with Republican opposition.

Congressman Gallego released the following statement:

"As Members of Congress it is our duty to honor the promises that we made to our men and women in uniform. I know what happens when Washington fails our troops on the battlefield and our veterans here at home.

"My amendment was a common sense provision that would have given our troops more financial security – increasing their pay by 2.3% and guaranteeing that they would get paid in the case of a government shutdown.

"Unfortunately, time and time again, Republicans show that they only care to fight for the wealthy, for corporations and special interests – while making struggling families pay the price and hanging them out to dry.

"It is a real shame that Republicans can't put aside their partisan politics for the well-being of the men and women who on a daily basis fight for our security and freedom. Shame on them."

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