SC Senator Voted Against the Department of Defense Authorization Bill

U.S. Senator Jim DeMint voted against our troops and against the Department of Defense Authorization Bill. DeMint was one of only a small handful of Senators to vote against this important piece of legislation. Despite his attempts to stop this legislation, the Department of Defense Authorization Bill passed overwhelmingly. Under the bill, military personnel will receive much deserved pay increases, health care for returning troops will be expanded and improved, and crucial upgrades will be made to military equipment. All of these improvements will ensure that the United States military remains the strongest in the world.

"Many of us are starting to wonder who Jim DeMint actually represents while he's in Washington; it's definitely not the many thousands of South Carolinians who proudly serve in our nation's military. He repeatedly votes against legislation that would improve the quality of life, whether for our troops and their families or for all South Carolinians, without good reason or explanation. Senator DeMint really owes an explanation to the brave, patriotic men and women who protect our way of life," said Fowler.

In addition to all U.S. Defense spending for the upcoming year, the Department of Defense Authorization Bill, which Senator DeMint voted against, included:

• A 3.4% pay raise across the board for all military personnel.
• Improvements to the healthcare our soldiers receive once they return home.
• Increased funding for upgraded equipment, training, and technology to keep our troops safe and prepared that include, among other items, mine resistant military vehicles and all terrain vehicles that will be deployed to Afghanistan.
• Full funding for military readiness, making sure military equipment is sound.
• Authorization for enhanced capacity and funding for the U.S. military to continue to fight the war against Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan and to keep America safe from terrorism.
• Aggressive oversight of the Department of Defense to ensure that taxpayers' dollars are best used to ensure America’s security.