Hoyer Meets with Commander of Naval Air Systems Command Vice Admiral David Dunaway, Defense Community Leaders

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) released the following statement today following meetings with Vice Admiral David Dunaway, Commander of Naval Air Systems Command, and members of the defense community in St. Mary’s County:

“I’m pleased I could meet with Vice Admiral Dunaway, as well as other defense community leaders in St. Mary’s County, to discuss the budget challenges facing our community. I appreciate their insight as I continue to urge my colleagues in Congress to replace looming automatic spending cuts imposed by sequestration with a balanced deficit reduction plan.

“The sequester makes irrational cuts to both defense and non-defense spending that would have a harmful impact on our community and all communities affected by defense spending. I strongly believe we must replace these painful cuts with a balanced plan that addresses both spending cuts and revenue. Unfortunately, some Members of Congress appear to be willing to allow these cuts to take effect. I believe that would have a detrimental impact on our community and our nation and is an irresponsible position to take.

“I will continue urging both parties to work together on a balanced solution to the deficit so that we can avoid these irrational cuts, and will continue working with Vice Admiral Dunaway and others to strengthen national security, provide certainty to our businesses, and protect local jobs.”