Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., has expressed his support for the passage of H.R. 3838, known as the Streamlining Procurement for Effective Execution and Delivery (SPEED) and National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026.
“I am pleased to support this year’s National Defense Authorization Act,” said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. “This package empowers our military and safeguards our country against foreign threats while saving taxpayers over $20 billion by cutting unnecessary bureaucracy. It is peace through strength that keeps the United States and the world safe. North Carolina is home to some of our nation’s finest warfighters, including those serving at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Stations Cherry Point and New River. It is my honor to ensure these individuals and their families, who sacrifice so much for our freedom and prosperity, have the tools and resources they need to succeed.”
Key provisions in the bill include $90 million allocated for an operations facility at Camp Lejeune and $200 million for the F-35 Aircraft Sustainment Center at FRC East. The legislation also authorizes awarding the Medal of Honor to Major James Capers, Jr., USMC (Ret.), recognizing acts of valor during the Vietnam War. Service members will receive a 3.8% pay raise along with expanded bonuses and special pay.
The NDAA modernizes military capabilities by funding fighter aircraft, submarines, warships, autonomous systems, and revitalizing defense manufacturing jobs in America. The act prohibits retiring certain aircraft models such as F-22s, F-15Es, A-10s, C-130s, and Grey Eagles.
Border security measures are included with full funding for National Defense Areas along the southwest border and more than $900 million dedicated to counter-narcotics efforts.
The legislation makes changes regarding military promotions by requiring decisions based on individual merit rather than race or ethnicity. Affirmative action at service academies will end; selections must be based solely on candidate merit. Funding is prohibited for teaching Critical Race Theory or supporting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) activities within the Department of Defense.
To deter foreign adversaries, the bill extends initiatives aimed at strengthening U.S. posture in the Indo-Pacific region against China’s influence. Support is increased for Israel’s security programs like Iron Dome.
Gregory Murphy has represented North Carolina’s 3rd congressional district since winning a special election in 2019 against Allen Thomas with about 61% of votes. He subsequently won reelection in 2020 against Daryl Farrow with over 63%, in 2022 against Barbara Gaskins with nearly 67%, and most recently in 2024 against Gheorghe Cormos with over 77% of votes.
