October 8 – Congressman Zach Wamp opposed today’s inclusion of hate crimes legislation within the National Defense Authorization Act. Following is a statement about his vote:

 

“Throughout my 15 years in Congress, I have always been a passionate supporter of our military and their families. My support for our brave servicemen and women is strong. Regrettably, I cannot in good conscience vote for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010. Using the broad admiration for our military, the Democrat majority has hijacked this Defense Authorization bill to pass a hate crimes provision that could not pass on its own.

 

“The use of violence against any innocent person is wrong, regardless of that individual’s race, religion, nationality or sexual orientation. If we prioritize crimes based on the victim’s status, we threaten the very notion of equal protection under the law that is the foundation of our legal system. Instead, all violations of the law should be dealt with in a manner that delivers justice to the fullest extent of the law.

 

“With two wars waging overseas, now is not the time to be playing politics with a defense bill vital to our national security. Today’s vote sends the wrong message to all those who stand in defense of our nation around the world.”