House Armed Services Committee Chairman Rep. Buck McKeon (R-CA) said that while he understands the need to make cuts in the federal budget, the Defense Dept. budget should still be conscientious of what programs are curtailed.
“It’s ludicrous to think that out of a $550 billion budget that you can’t find some savings,” said the chairman. “My concern is, when we’re fighting two wars and now engaged in Libya, it’s not a great time to be cutting the military.”
Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has come out in favor of budget cuts, as well as an overall examination of programs that could be reworked. He has also led the way in implementing the repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.
While Rep. McKeon said that he’s not bothered by gays serving openly, he divulged there were still unanswered questions about the impact on the military.
“What I’m concerned about is the troops that it may bother” and the affect on readiness, retention and recruitment, said the representative.