In the News

Washington, D.C. – 9/12/25… This week, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the House on September 10th:

“The House’s annual defense bill delivers for our servicemembers and their families. It gives them a well-earned 3.8 percent pay raise, invests in housing and childcare, improves healthcare and education benefits, and makes life safer on bases across the country. For Hudson Valley service members, veterans, and military families, these investments matter.

The bill also strengthens our alliances and U.S. global leadership. It fully funds U.S.-Israel defense cooperation and expands bilateral efforts to counter terrorism. It makes major investments in the Indo-Pacific, where the Chinese Communist Party remains the greatest long-term threat to U.S. security. It expands the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, boosts joint training with allies like Taiwan, and invests in next-generation technologies like AI. 

Additionally, this bill includes funding to bolster our allies in Europe and our partner Ukraine as Putin continues his unlawful war. Peace through strength is only possible with a strong national defense that ensures America is  ready to meet any challenge.” 

In addition to supporting final passage of the NDAA, Congressman Lawler also:

• Authored a bipartisan amendment recognizing the heroic women of the WWII Cadet Nurse Corps, which passed the House by voice vote and was first introduced during the 118th Congress.
• Supported the expansion of America’s military strength by authorizing investments in missile defense, F-47 fighter aircraft, submarines, warships, autonomous systems, nuclear capabilities, and space programs.
• Supported an amendment to crack down on fraud and abuse in military programs, following a scheme that stole over $100 million from funds intended for servicemembers’ families.
• Opposed efforts to cut U.S. aid to Ukraine, reaffirming his commitment to standing with Ukraine in its fight for freedom.
• Strengthened penalties for trespassing and security violations on military property.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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