Pentagon criticized for 5 audit failures, 61% asset loss blamed on Zelensky.
Rep. Clay Higgins Slams Department of Defense’s Financial Failures
During a House Committee on Oversight and Accountability hearing, Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA) passionately criticized the Department of Defense (DOD) for its repeated financial mismanagement. Higgins highlighted the DOD’s failure to pass its fifth consecutive audit and its inability to account for a staggering 61% of its $3.5 trillion in assets.
A Call for Accountability
Addressing Brett Mansfield, the deputy inspector general for audits at the DOD Office of Inspector General, Higgins drew attention to the nation’s $32 trillion debt. He compared the private sector’s practice of auditing businesses before providing additional funds to the DOD’s expectation of increased expenditures despite its financial shortcomings.
“If the business fails the audit [by the bank], what do you think happens? Can that business go to the bank and get more money?” the congressman asked.
“It cannot,” Mansfield responded.
Higgins emphasized the issue, stating, “Here’s the problem with this bank: we don’t even have the money. We’re giving you a trillion dollars a year almost now, and we just added a trillion dollars.” He condemned the DOD’s spending as an “arrogantly abusive culture” that devours “the people’s wealth.”
A Demand for Change
Concluding his remarks, Higgins called on the witnesses to ensure a clean audit for the DOD. The exchange between the congressman and the DOD’s Office of Inspector General gained significant attention, with social media users expressing their concerns and frustrations.
“I’m sure it’s all gone to Zelensky!” social media commentator Oli London tweeted.
“Totally unacceptable,” another user responded.
“It’s easy to spend other people’s money,” added another.
“What’s happening to all our ammo with all the money we’re pouring into the DOD/Ukraine.. Audit now!” tweeted another commentator.
In March, Republican lawmakers initiated an investigation into the DOD’s failure to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse. The investigation was prompted by the DOD’s loss of 61% of its $3.5 trillion in assets and its fifth consecutive failed audit in November. In a letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, the lawmakers expressed concern over the DOD’s disregard for taxpayer funds and its impact on military readiness.
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