Missouri lawmakers seek land protections for Whiteman Air Force Base
Washington, DC – Earlier today, As first reported by CQ Roll Call, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) and Senator Eric Schmitt sent a letter to Assistant Secretary of Treasury Paul Rosen regarding the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States’ (CFIUS) decision to leave Whiteman Air Force Base off their recent ruling.
The letter specifically says:
“As you may know, Whiteman Air Force Base is home to the B-2 bomber and future home of the B-21 bomber. The next generation B-21 will be the backbone of our future bomber force and a crucial asset to projecting American air power and deterrence. The proposed rule from CFIUS included several installations that will either house or are currently building the B-21 including Air Force Plant 42, Ellsworth Air Force Base, and Dyess Air Force Base. However, Whiteman Air Force Base was not included in this list despite being the second preferred location to receive the B-21. Whiteman Air Force base is critical to our national defense, and we believe this is an oversight that should be corrected.”
Congressman Alford issued the following statement:
“While I do not believe foreign adversaries should be allowed to purchase farmland anywhere in America, this rule is especially worrisome. As a key pillar of the nuclear triad, Whiteman Air Force base must be protected at all costs. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States’ (CFIUS) decision to leave Whiteman off their rule that would amend Section 721 of the Defense Production Act is disappointing, to say the least. I urge this Administration to immediately reconsider their decision and add the necessary safeguards for Whiteman Air Force Base.”
Senator Schmitt added:
“It’s no secret that China and other adversaries are increasingly aggressive in their attempts to surveil our military activities, installations, and personnel here in America. Omitting Whiteman Air Force Base from CFIUS‘s rule to protect communities surrounding military installations is extremely concerning,” said Senator Eric Schmitt. “Whiteman Air Force Base is one of the most strategically important military installations in the world, and protection of the surrounding community is critical. I’m joining Rep. Alford in calling for the Treasury Department to immediately afford Whiteman Air Force Base the protection it needs.