On Thursday, September 11, 2025, Congressman Eric Sorensen released the following statement, regarding his vote to oppose the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) on the House floor.
Summary of the National Defense Authorization Act summary: The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25 NDAA), officially signed into law in December 2024, is a bipartisan Bill that sets defense policy and budget levels for the U. S. military, authorizing $895.2 billion for National Defense programs. The legislation focuses on strategic competition, modernization of military equipment, and improving the quality of life for service members and their families, addressing issues like pay, housing, and healthcare. It also contains provisions related to supply chains, cybersecurity, and support for allies, incorporating other legislative measures and maintaining its status as “must-pass” legislation.
“I am proud of the Bill we put together in committee, that delivered for our communities, but unfortunately Republicans hijacked the Bill on the floor,” said Congressman Sorensen. “Let me be clear. I cannot support a bill that shortchanges our servicemembers. My hope is that we can return to bipartisanship in conference to make sure servicemembers, military families, and Illinois workers come first. We should be prioritizing our National security, not politicizing our military.”
Earlier this summer, Sorensen secured major wins in the NDAA for Central and Northwestern Illinois in the House Armed Services Committee. On the House floor, Republicans focused on adding divisive amendments to the NDAA, rather than strengthening National security.