John,

For far too long, this country has put profits ahead of its people. As social spending bills were left on the negotiating table last year, Congress wasted no time approving a $782 billion defense budget — even higher than what the military requested.

Americans everywhere are struggling with the cost of living and barriers to basic needs like housing and health care. It is past time that we realign our priorities to address our pandemic recovery, ongoing economic insecurity, and an international energy crisis — none of which will be resolved through greater military spending.

That’s why my Defense Spending Reduction Caucus Co-Chair, Rep. Mark Pocan, and I introduced legislation to cut $100 billion from the defense budget.

Taking this step to downsize our military budget by $100 billion will ensure that our national security truly centers on the American people, not weapons industry profits.

Changing the status quo won’t be easy, which is why I’ll need your help to drum up support and demand that our spending priorities reflect the urgent needs of communities across this country.

If you agree with my plan to cut defense spending by $100 billion and reinvest in relief for working families and communities everywhere, please add your name to my petition.

In solidarity,

Barbara Lee