Staff Reports
President Joe Biden delivered a speech at the Truman Civil Rights Symposium, using the opportunity to take aim at Republicans for their alleged abandonment of a strong national defense. In what could be a preview of his strategy for combating complaints about “wokeness” in the military during the 2024 campaign, Biden accused the Republican Party of undermining the armed forces.
Biden says Republicans now 'undermining the military' https://t.co/ghXpdRmqUJ
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) July 28, 2023
Biden specifically called out Senator Tommy Tuberville, a Republican from Alabama, for obstructing military promotions as a form of protest against the Pentagon’s travel reimbursements policy for abortions. He also criticized the 48 Republicans who have refused to intervene. The president expressed concern that without swift action, critical military leadership positions, including the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, could be left unfilled.
President @JoeBiden used remarks at the Truman Civil Rights Symposium to attack Republicans for turning their backs on a strong national defense, possibly previewing how he will push back against complaints about “wokeness” in the military during the 2024 campaign.
DETAILS:… pic.twitter.com/S3SJ95G0uc
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) July 28, 2023
He derided the situation as a “partisan freeze” and an “extreme blockade,” emphasizing that this was not a game of football, taking a playful jab at Tuberville’s background as a college football coach. Biden referred to the senator’s actions as an example of an “extreme political agenda” that obstructs more than 300 military operations.
Additionally, Biden targeted conservative lawmakers Ted Cruz and Josh Hawley, who have voiced concerns about ideological trends in the military. The president dismissed their criticism, claiming they have no understanding of the subject matter. He accused Cruz of being deceived by “Russian propaganda” and argued that Hawley had shown support for “insurrectionists,” referencing the events of January 6th.
In response to Republican complaints, Biden firmly stated, “Enough with the attacks on our military.” However, despite his rhetoric, the Senate recently passed the National Defense Authorization Act by a significant bipartisan majority. While the president dedicated much of his speech to praising President Harry Truman’s commitment to civil rights and the desegregation of the military, he made it clear that he expects Senate Republicans to approve all outstanding military nominees.
As a conservative Republican news writer, this news story allows me to highlight some concerning trends within the Democratic party. President Biden’s attack on Republicans for alleged negligence towards the military appears misguided, as the Senate’s recent bipartisan vote demonstrates strong support for national defense. Furthermore, his dismissal of Republican concerns about ideological trends in the military reflects a lack of understanding and an unwillingness to engage in meaningful dialogue. It is essential that we emphasize the importance of a strong and effective military, while also addressing legitimate concerns about partisan influences within the armed forces.
