The mission of the Department of Veterans Affairs is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise “to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan.” Having learned from family members who served in the military and in combat zones, I understand the special role that veterans play in our society. 

We must continue to support veterans who return from service with visible and unseen scars. This starts with ensuring the Department of Veterans Affairs and our VA facilities are adequately serving our veterans with both their physical and mental health needs. 

I believe in the role the Department of the Defense plays in our government. I have worked closely with the DOD throughout my career, particularly the Office of Manufacturing and Industrial Based Policy. The DOD can be a partner for automakers and suppliers as our industrial base has been critical to our long term national security. We need to encourage public-private partnerships and co-investment in R&D, Innovation and supply chain securitization, particularly for cyber security. I believe in responsible spending that equips our soldiers and military personnel with the resources they need to do their jobs. 

The United States foreign policy success rests squarely with strategic allied relationships and diplomacy. We must avoid isolationist policies that fray international relationships and continue to develop strong bonds with our allies. 

I was honored to travel with the House Committee on Veteran’s Affairs to Kuwait and Afghanistan to meet with soldiers serving abroad and learn more about the needs of those getting ready to complete their service.