Florida Senator Rick Scott, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and ranking member of the SASC Personnel Subcommittee, delivered a speech on the Senate floor Wednesday criticizing Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for delaying consideration of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
Senator Scott emphasized the importance of passing this critical bill, which sets policy and authorizes funding levels for America’s armed forces to secure major wins for Florida, the military, and the national security community.
“We shouldn’t be here giving speeches about the National Defense Authorization Act today – we should be here on the Senate floor voting on the National Defense Authorization Act today,” Scott stated. He accused Majority Leader Schumer of repeatedly stalling the advancement of this essential legislation. “The Majority Leader’s refusal to act on the NDAA – a bill which passed with strong bipartisan support out of the Armed Services Committee more than a month ago – is more than frustrating. It’s dangerous.”
Scott highlighted the growing threats from countries like China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea, stressing the need for the U.S. to demonstrate military strength and reduce dependence on adversaries. “Without some of the good policy in the NDAA we passed out of committee a month ago becoming law, Communist China has tools at its disposal to do great harm to America.”
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He called for an immediate vote on the NDAA, citing its crucial role in maintaining America’s military superiority and supporting military families. “Our servicemembers deserve better, and public accountability is the first step to addressing those issues.”
The NDAA includes significant provisions for Florida, home to 21 military bases and nearly 64,000 active-duty members. Scott secured a 4.5% pay raise for servicemembers and $3 million for on-base childcare construction in the Florida Panhandle. He also emphasized removing Chinese-grown garlic from on-base commissaries and ensuring the Department of Defense purchases essential medicines and technology domestically to reduce reliance on adversaries.
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Scott concluded by urging his colleagues to unite and prioritize national security. “A strong defense is key to protecting the freedoms that make America great. I look forward to working closely with my colleagues to make sure we are protecting our national security and investing in America’s greatest asset – the men and women of our armed forces.”
He reiterated his call for Schumer to bring the NDAA to a vote. “We cannot afford to send any signal of weakness at this time of growing threats and instability around the globe.”
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