Babette Nunes Wagner: Denham knew of ‘clawback’ two years ago and did nothing
After speaking with Congressman Jeff Denham’s office regarding the National Guard clawback of signing bonuses, I was told he initiated a move in the 2014 Appropriations Committee and was “aware of the situation.” I tried to clarify what was introduced, but was cut off mid-question and told “the Committee did not forward it to the floor,” which contradicts the article stating Denham “withdrew” it. That Committee consisted of 29 Republicans and 22 Democrats and it is stunning that those who preach they support the troops failed to act over two years ago!
The tab for Afghanistan and that fool’s errand in Iraq was $4.8 trillion-plus. It is onerous to saddle veterans with even a fraction of that (approximately $100 million). DOD Secretary Carter has pledged to “suspend” the clawback; but he has no authority! It’s up to Congress to act and tell the President that, should it be vetoed, they will override it. Bonuses were received in good faith and obligations were met. Veterans should not be asked to sacrifice for another stupid mistake not of their making. I cannot support a congressman with so little commitment to making it happen back in 2014!
Babette Nunes Wagner, Modesto
This story was originally published October 31, 2016 at 4:27 PM with the headline "Babette Nunes Wagner: Denham knew of ‘clawback’ two years ago and did nothing."