New Democrat Coalition Chair Annie Kuster (NH-02), National Security Task Force Chair Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Vice Chairs Jason Crow (CO-06), Ed Case (HI-01) and Jared Moskowitz (FL-23) released the below statement regarding the National Defense Authorization Act of 2024 (NDAA). New Dems called on the Speaker earlier this week to work with Democrats and Republicans, as is tradition, to find common ground on this legislation: 

“Speaker McCarthy had a choice this week: work with Members on both sides of the aisle to pass a serious bill that protects our national security, or kowtow to the most extreme elements of his party and engage in culture wars.

“Unfortunately, the Speaker chose the latter, forcing through hyper-partisan amendments that disrespect our servicemembers and strip them of their essential freedoms — including access to abortion and lifesaving reproductive health care. While there is a lot to be proud of in this legislation, these extremist attacks force us to oppose the bill. We will continue working with our Senate colleagues and reasonable Republicans to get a bill done before the end of the year that truly keeps us safe at home and abroad.”

New Democrat Coalition Chair Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the below statement following the release of the June Inflation Report, which showed U.S. annual inflation slowed to 3% last month – marking the 12th straight month annual inflation has slowed:

“The June inflation rate is a key indicator that Bidenomics and the New Dem Action Plan to Fight Inflation have helped to bring down costs for hardworking American families. 

“Following the twin COVID-19 health and economic crises, New Dems established a first of its kind Inflation Working Group to identify, develop and advance policies to lower prices in the short and long-term. Under President Biden’s leadership, Democrats are making real progress in this effort by passing legislation to create jobs, secure our supply chains, spur American manufacturing, and cut energy and health care costs. 

“The declining inflation rate is a clear signal that Democratic policies are strengthening our economy, helping American families, and building our economy from the middle out. At the same time, New Dems know there is more work ahead to make housing more affordable, address the labor shortage, and lower costs on everyday essentials. That’s why we remain laser-focused on working with fiscally responsible Members on both sides of the aisle to continue fighting inflation so every person in this country can achieve the American Dream.”