Rep. John James (MI-10) released the following statement regarding the ongoing vote for Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives:
"My vote isn’t about a person or party; it's about the well-being of our state and the strength of this nation. This is about a commitment on the record from Jim Jordan to protect legislation that I’ve already passed through the House that will directly benefit Michigan’s economy and our national security.
"For years, D.C. has sent Michigan’s auto jobs to Mexico and China. For years, the federal government has redirected our defense jobs and flying missions to Alabama and Arkansas. In spite of our state already being shorted $8.1 billion per year in federal defense spending, our defense industry contributes $31 billion to our economy and our nearly 4,000 businesses in the defense sector provide millions with a paycheck. Michigan has lost multiple bases and missions over the past few decades. Selfridge and the Arsenal of Democracy are my Alamo. We are not giving any more and we are not giving in.
"But it’s not just defense spending. I also secured millions in federal funds for Michigan’s crumbling roads, bridges, and underground infrastructure, which are now in jeopardy. I secured funding for critical infrastructure like the Soo Locks whose failure would devastate the American economy within weeks and kneecap national defense for years.
"There must be consequences for congressional leadership’s refusal to keep its promises - legislation that, again, I have already gotten passed through the House - especially given comments and votes on the record which demonstrate their willingness to slash our defense spending to the bone and turn their back on Michigan’s economy.
"Michigan has given so much to America, and it’s time that America gives back to Michigan. That, I promise you, I will fight for with all my heart."
