Urging Congress to direct the Department of Defense to relocate the United States Africa Command to Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base in Houston.
Impact
The resolution underscores the strategic advantages of Ellington Field as a base for AFRICOM, such as its joint service military capabilities and supportive local community. It points to the base's infrastructure, which accommodates large military aircraft, and Houston's strong ties with Africa, making it an ideal candidate for AFRICOM's permanent headquarters. The resolution argues that the relocation would not only enhance the effectiveness of AFRICOM but also consolidate American military presence in Africa, thus improving operational logistics and strategic decision-making.
Summary
SCR41 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that urges the United States Congress to instruct the Department of Defense to relocate the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) from its current location in Germany to Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base in Houston, Texas. The resolution highlights the potential cost savings of maintaining AFRICOM stateside, citing a 2012 Department of Defense study that indicated annual savings of $60 million to $70 million. Additionally, it emphasizes that moving AFRICOM could create significant economic benefits for the local community, bringing about 1,400 jobs back and generating approximately 4,300 new jobs, along with a substantial impact on the local economy estimated between $400 million to $500 million annually.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR41 appears to be overwhelmingly supportive, as indicated by the unanimous votes in both the Senate and the House (31-0 in the Senate and 143-0 in the House). Legislators from both parties recognize the potential economic and strategic benefits of relocating AFRICOM to Texas. Despite this, there may be concerns regarding the implications of such a move, including the associated financial costs of relocation before realizing the projected savings and job creation. Nonetheless, the resolution reflects a strong consensus on bolstering Texas' role in national defense operations related to Africa.
Contention
While the resolutions express a positive outlook for the relocation of AFRICOM, notable discussions may arise regarding the financial implications of the initial relocation process versus long-term savings. Furthermore, challenges may include navigating the military and political logistics associated with such a significant operational change, possibly affecting international relations with African nations. Overall, SCR41 represents a strategic push by Texas lawmakers not just to enhance local economic opportunities but also to contribute to broader U.S. military interests.
Declaring an invasion of the State of Texas by transnational cartel terrorists; urging the Governor to accelerate construction of a wall along the southern border; urging the U.S. Congress to deploy military forces.
Declaring an invasion of the State of Texas by transnational cartel terrorists, urging the governor to accelerate the construction of a wall along the Southern Border, and urging Congress to deploy military forces to combat transnational cartels.