‘Funding preparedness is a lot cheaper than funding a war’: Sen. McConnell visits Kentucky National Guard
FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWSNOW) — Senator Mitch McConnell visited with the Kentucky National Guard on Thursday to discuss federal resources and what he’s been working on over in D.C. to secure more funding to the guard here in Kentucky.
“Funding preparedness is a lot cheaper than funding a war,” McConnell said.
Senator McConnell worked to secure close to 540 million dollars for federal defense funding as part of the Military Construction, Veterans Affair and Related Agencies bills. It will provide more resources and facilities that include a new machine gun training range, a state administrative building, an ammunition warehouse and more.
“These facilities as enabled by your fiscal sponsorship causes us to be a more efficient force,” Maj. Gen. Haldane B. Lamberton said.
Both McConnell and Governor Andy Beshear agree that national security is of the utmost importance.
“If we are going to stand up to the adversaries that truly exist out there, we have to know when it comes to national security, we are not each other’s enemies, and that this is not a game of red or blue or D versus R,” Gov. Beshear said. “It’s about the United States of America.”
There are currently over 380 Kentucky guardsmen deployed. As war rages on in the Middle East, Beshear and McConnell say it’s essential we fund and provide the necessary resources for our defense.
“Over the last four years, our defense has seen a net loss in its budget,” Sen. McConnell said. “Historic inflation and chronic underinvestment have strained procurement of vital munition and equipment, including the lifesaving defense technology needed on the battlefield of Ukraine.”
Senator McConnell says he’s proud of our national guard. Governor Beshear adds that they will continue working to make sure they are well-equipped for anything they may face.
Major General Lamberton we know what this really means. We’re going to make sure our soldiers always have the very best because you always give us your very best,” Gov. Beshear said.
