Congressman Rob Wittman
At the General Membership Luncheon on August 13th at the Sheraton, Congressman Rob Wittman delivered a detailed address, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the industry, advancing economic development, boosting American manufacturing, discussing the Navy's future shipbuilding plans, and promoting workforce development. Representing Virginia's First Congressional District since 2007, Wittman has been a dedicated advocate for the Chesapeake Bay and a strong naval fleet, serving on the House Armed Services Committee and the Committee on Natural Resources.
Wittman highlighted the increasing global threats posed by nations like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, drawing parallels to the geopolitical tensions of the late 1930s. He warned that the current international situation bears striking similarities to the period leading up to World War II, with these nations positioning themselves as significant threats to global stability. Wittman expressed concern over China’s strategic dominance in essential materials, such as cobalt and graphite, which are critical to numerous industries, including ship repair. He explained how China's control over these resources, coupled with their practice of "dumping" materials on the global market, is undercutting American companies and threatening the supply chain necessary for maintaining a strong naval fleet.
Furthermore, Wittman addressed China’s increasing influence in Africa and South America, where they have been aggressively securing natural resources and establishing economic footholds. He cautioned that the U.S. must recognize the long-term implications of these actions and take steps to counter China’s expanding reach.
Discussing the Navy's shipbuilding strategy, Wittman criticized the decision to retire significantly more younger ships than are being constructed. He pointed out that this approach weakens the Navy’s operational readiness, especially when ship construction is already behind schedule. Wittman also discussed the importance of maintaining a robust ship repair schedule, supported by data that predicts when ships will require maintenance, to ensure the fleet remains combat-ready.
Wittman also addressed the shortfalls in staffing at shipyards, acknowledging the ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining essential workers. He shared he has heard of the need for an extended workforce but has seen layoffs in the industry.
On the issue of government shutdowns, Wittman shared his experience of donating his paycheck to charity during the three shutdowns he experienced, highlighting the unfairness of Congress members continuing to receive pay while service members do not. He proposed that Congress’s paychecks be withheld until the budget is passed, with those funds redirected to pay service members, ensuring they are not financially penalized during budgetary impasses. He also stressed the need to clearly distinguish between essential and non-essential personnel, particularly in the context of government shutdowns.
Wittman’s speech underscored the urgency of addressing these critical issues to safeguard the nation’s security and maintain its industrial and military strength in an increasingly unstable world.
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