Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) issued the following statement after the House voted to pass H.R. 5334, the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026: “At a...
As a nation, we have a moral obligation to deliver the highest-quality care and benefits to the service members who put their lives on the line every day. In Virginia’s Fourth, I am proud to represent so many brave veterans who fought to protect our freedom and continue giving back to their communities after their service.
In the 118th Congress, I served on the House Armed Services Committee, where I focused on improving the quality of life for our service members, enforcing responsible defense policy through the NDAA, providing strong congressional oversight of national security decisions, and building a diverse, ready force. Veterans give so much to our communities, and we must do everything within our power to support them as they transition back into civilian life. This means ensuring access to quality physical and mental health care, strengthening support for those injured in service, and modernizing education and workforce programs so they can translate their experience into meaningful careers and long-term economic stability.
Unfortunately, over the past year, the Trump Administration has continued to politicize defense policy to stoke culture wars. The President and Congressional Republicans have targeted Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives across the military and the federal government, scapegoating DEI for recruitment and retention challenges even though an inclusive force strengthens readiness and ensures every service member can succeed. Instead of focusing on what actually drives readiness, such as preventing sexual assault, expanding access to mental health care, and investing in housing, childcare and family supports, the President and his supporters have chosen chaos at the expense of our service members, military families and our national security. I vehemently oppose their approach and will continue to advocate on behalf of our service members.
I will keep fighting to put service members, veterans, and military families first — with policies that strengthen readiness, expand care, and deliver real support during their service and after they return home.
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