National security is the first responsibility of the federal government.
A strong, respected, and highly capable military ensures that America's democratic values, freedoms, prosperity, and way of life will be protected, and serves as a shining example for others to follow. A strong military also protects our interests and citizens around the world. Senator Thompson has said that the most important part of our armed forces are the dedicated men and women who serve proudly around the globe, and that we must continue to support them by improving the pay, benefits, and quality of life for military personnel and their families. The federal government must provide the military with the resources it needs to defend our homeland, safeguard America's interests, and protect Americans abroad. However, the U.S. military today is in bad shape, and may not be able to respond to all of its assigned missions.