Michigan Congressional Delegation Members Meet with Air Force Secretary, Continue Bipartisan Push for New Fighter Mission at Selfridge Air National Guard Base

WASHINGTON, DC – Led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), members of the Michigan congressional delegation met with Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall to continue their bipartisan push for a new, long-term fighter mission at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. During the meeting, Peters, U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), U.S. Representatives John James (MI-10) and John Moolenaar (MI-02) stressed the importance of a future fighter mission to Selfridge and our nation’s overall defense strategy.

“Selfridge is well-positioned for future military operations, and I convened this meeting with Secretary Kendall, so we could continue to advocate for a fighter mission that factors in the base’s top-notch capabilities and importance to our national defense strategy,” said Senator Peters, a former Lt. Commander in the Navy Reserve, and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. “We had a productive conversation and reiterated the Air Force must make good on their long-term commitments to Michigan. Through my roles on the Appropriations and Armed Services Committees, I’ll continue to hold them accountable to their pledge and fight to deliver federal investments at Selfridge – including a push for a new fighter mission.”

“The men and women who serve at Michigan’s military installations are the finest in all of the armed forces—they're simply second to none,” said Senator Stabenow. “Today, we met with Secretary Kendall to reiterate our support for Selfridge and emphasize the need for a new, long-term fighter mission to help our military meet current and future national security challenges.”

“During today’s meeting with Air Force Secretary Kendall, I reminded him of two things,” said Congressman James. “One, Selfridge is critical to national defense against northern climate aggressors, like Russia and China. Two, I don’t quit. I’ll continue to press the Air Force to bring a new fighter mission to Selfridge until its future is secure. Whether it’s an F-15EX or an F-35, I am confident in Selfridge’s ability to support the Air Force’s mission to modernize and bolster our national defense.”

“Michigan has a vital role in national security for America. Our state has important training grounds for our allies and crucial manufacturing sites that keep the economy going. Selfridge is making new investments in its capabilities and stands ready to support the Air Force as it keeps our country safe,” said Congressman John Moolenaar, a member of the House Appropriations Committee.

The meeting with Secretary Kendall comes after Peters, Stabenow and James led a bipartisan, bicameral call with the Michigan congressional delegation for a new fighter mission at Selfridge and introduced companion resolutions to highlight the contributions of Selfridge. To view text of the letter, click here, and to view text of the resolution, click here.

Peters and Stabenow previously worked to secure significant commitments from the Department of Defense, including a pledge that Selfridge will continue to play a “critical and ongoing role for our national security.”

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