Sixth District Perspectives with Congressman Ben Cline – December 16, 2024

It was a busy week back in session in Washington, D.C. First, House Republicans passed the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act, which authorizes our military activities for the next year. The House also voted to pass the JUDGES Act, which allows President Trump to address the federal judge shortage and ensures timely justice for American citizens. I had the privilege of joining Maria Bartiromo on Fox Business to discuss some of the key issues facing our country. I was honored to receive the Friend of the Farm Bureau Award for the 118th Congress. Last week, it was great to celebrate the National Guard’s birthday and Bill of Rights Day, as well as participate in Wreaths Across America. As always, I enjoyed meeting with organizations and constituents back in the District. As we head into our last week of session for the 118th Congress, rest assured that I’ll continue to fight for the people of Virginia’s Sixth District up in Washington.

NDAA
Last week, House Republicans passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (NDAA), which I supported. The NDAA ensures our armed forces are equipped and prepared to deter our adversaries and protect our allies.

The NDAA also invests in our service members’ quality of life by securing a 14.5% pay raise for junior service members, improved housing for our military families, and other benefits. Moreover, this defense funding bill restores the focus of our military on lethality, not the Left’s DEI and CRT agenda. I am proud to support this legislation that improves the quality of life for our service members, restores our military focus, and reinforces our commitment to peace through strength. Rest assured, I will never stop fighting to strengthen our military and protect those who protect us.

The JUDGES Act
Many Americans are currently denied timely access to our justice system due to a shortage of judges and overwhelming case volumes. It’s been over 20 years since Congress authorized new judgeships, while our population has grown by nearly 100 million, and federal case filings have increased by 40%. This has resulted in significant delays for those waiting for their day in court.

To tackle this issue, House Republicans passed the Judicial Understaffing Delays Getting Emergencies Solved (JUDGES) Act, which allows President Trump to fill 66 new federal judgeships in overburdened districts. This legislation aims to reduce delays and ensure all Americans have timely access to justice. I’m proud to see the JUDGES Act pass, a crucial step toward restoring balance in our courts. While it is disappointing to hear that the Biden-Harris Administration has threatened to veto this bill, House Republicans will continue to fight these political hurdles and strengthen our justice system.

Click the image to watch my floor comments.

Joining Fox Business with Maria Bartiromo
Last week, I had the privilege of joining Maria Bartiromo on Fox Business’ “Mornings with Maria” to discuss key issues facing our nation. We talked about the reconciliation package supporting the America First agenda, provisions in the NDAA to strengthen our counter-drone programs, and China’s recent cyberattacks on American consumers.

Click the image to watch the interview.

Friend of the Farm Bureau Award

I am honored to receive the Friend of the Farm Bureau Award for supporting agriculture-related policies during the 118th Congress. Farmers are the backbone of Virginia’s economy, and it’s essential that we stand with them. I will continue to champion legislation that empowers our hardworking farmers and strengthens agricultural communities across the Commonwealth and our country.

Celebrating 388 years of the National Guard
Last Friday, we celebrated 388 years of the National Guard. Since 1636, the National Guard has stood ready to protect and serve—whether at home or abroad.

Thank you to all the brave men and women who wear the uniform and answered the call to serve. Their commitment keeps our communities safe and our nation strong.

Bills of Rights Day

This Bill of Rights Day, we honor the ratification of the first ten amendments to our Constitution on December 15, 1791. I will continue to fight in Washington to protect, preserve, and strengthen these God-given freedoms for all Americans.

Out and About in the District

I had the honor of participating in Wreaths Across America at Winchester National Cemetery. It was an honor to lay wreaths and remember the brave men and women who served our nation.

I had the privilege of presenting a Congressional Record plaque to the Vinton First Aid Junior Crew in celebration of their 50th anniversary. Congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Congressman. If my office can ever be of assistance, please contact my Washington office at (202) 225-5431.

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