Peace Garden News

The Senate Armed Services Committee convened a hearing to evaluate four nominees for important roles within the U.S. Department of Defense. The nominees included Troy Meink for Secretary of the U.S. Air Force, Michael Duffey for Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, Emil Michael for Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, and Keith Bass for Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs.

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer questioned the nominees about staying competitive with adversaries, safeguarding innovators, and the legislation he championed to enhance access to rural mental health care services.

Cramer expressed concerns regarding the potential cancellation of solicitations for the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) Transport satellite layers on Tranches 2 and 3. This change might favor the existing capability of SpaceX’s Starshield over allowing bids from smaller companies. Cramer highlighted the importance of nurturing growth in the U.S. space industrial base.

Dr. Meink was asked about the impact on innovators if these opportunities were cut. He responded, "One of the things that I've pushed for, particularly over the last 10 years, is expand competition and expand the industry base," emphasizing the benefits for both capability and cost.

Referencing the SDA's 2019 founding document, which urged for adaptation to remain competitive, Cramer sought Meink's view on its current relevance. Meink agreed on the need for flexibility and adaptation in responding to evolving technology and threats. He noted, "We always have to look at how we're operating, how we're executing as technology changes."

Attention turned to legislation inspired by the loss of two airmen at Grand Forks Air Force Base. Cramer's legislation in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act aims to ensure access to mental health services for military members and dependents in rural areas. It mandates expanding accreditation standards if TRICARE Prime standards are unmet for over 12 months.

Cramer questioned Bass on his commitment to enforcing this law and mentioned the tragic loss of two airmen denied care by TRICARE. He stated, "I’m going to switch it over to you, Mr. Bass, and talk about something that's really near and dear to my heart."

Bass was asked to monitor the law closely and commit to mental health access for service members, to which he responded, "The mental health access for our service members in our total force has to be a priority, and I will commit to working with you on that."