Paying Our Service Members Is a Sacred Duty—Not a Political Bargaining Chip

Washington, D.C.—Today, the America First Policy Institute (AFPI) issued the following statement from Secretary Robert Wilkie, Co-Chair of American Security and former Secretary of Veterans Affairs, regarding the ongoing government shutdown:

“Our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines should never have to worry about whether their government will uphold its most basic promise—to pay them for their service. That’s why we commend President Donald Trump for ordering the Pentagon to use all available funds to ensure that our two million service members receive their paychecks today, October 15. That decision reflects the seriousness and respect this administration has for those who wear the uniform.

The administration’s creative action—redirecting unobligated funds and tariff revenues so that our military can be paid—shows true leadership in a time of crisis. It demonstrates what responsible governance looks like: putting the needs of our military and their families first.

But this cannot go on forever. The President can only do so much while Congress plays politics and the radical left has refused to reopen the government unless they secure taxpayer-funded healthcare for illegal aliens. That is not compassion—it’s chaos. It puts politics above patriotism and rewards lawlessness over sacrifice.

America’s servicemen and women are not bargaining chips in their political games. Every day this shutdown continues, their families are forced to live with uncertainty. It’s time to end this reckless standoff, reopen the government, and put America’s heroes—our service members—first.”