Tester meets with head of U.S. Marine Corps to discuss ISIL, national security

Senator and General also discuss military’s budget priorities

(U.S. Senate) – In the wake of recent terrorist attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, Senator Jon Tester met with Marine Corps Commandant General Robert Neller to discuss efforts to combat ISIL and ensure America’s national security.

Tester and Neller discussed what’s being done internationally to defeat the Islamic State. The Senator also asked for assurances that the U.S. military has a clear plan to avoid being engaged in a Middle Eastern conflict indefinitely.

“America has the best fighting force in the world, and we have to make sure they have the tools they need to defeat ISIL and other threats around the world,” Tester said. “Hearing directly from our military leaders ensures that Congress can do a better job strengthening our national security and supporting the men and women bravely serving in our military.”

Tester and Neller also discussed the Marine Corps’ budget priorities for next year, as well as the Pentagon’s recent decision to expand the role of women in combat roles. Tester is the Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee tasked with funding military construction projects and the VA. He also serves on the Defense Appropriations subcommittee, which provides funding for our troops and supports the ongoing efforts of the military to protect our nation.