WASHINGTON, D.C. - Last night, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement after voting against passage of the Rule for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026:

"I greatly respect our armed forces. But voting for this bill would be a disservice to those who serve. I trust our soldiers and their doctors-not politicians in Congress-to make decisions about their families' healthcare. Furthermore, this legislation includes problematic and divisive amendments that are a distraction from our core mission of strengthening national defense.

"For 65 years, the NDAA has represented bipartisan commitment to our national security. This year's process undermines that legacy by sacrificing collaboration in favor of partisanship. I cannot support a bill that weakens oversight, dismisses expert voices, and threatens the integrity of our armed forces."

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