Reported conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln are concerning. What can lawmakers do?
Summary
This episode examines deteriorating conditions and mental health crises aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, which has been deployed for over 200 days due to the war with Iran. Host Juana Summers interviews Rep. Seth Moulton, who criticizes Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for ignoring troop welfare and calls for congressional investigations. Moulton argues that the lack of safe ports and unclear mission goals are eroding morale, urging lawmakers to restore mental health funding and demand accountability.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Deteriorating conditions on USS Abraham Lincoln
Sponsor messages: Mattress Firm, Schwab, and Viking
Interview begins: Rep. Moulton on reports of sailors jumping overboard
Criticism of Defense Secretary Hegseth and administration priorities
Troop morale and lack of belief in the mission in Iran
Unprecedented deployment length and lack of safe ports
Call for congressional investigations and Republican accountability
Mental health funding, 988 hotline, and proposed delegation visit
Credits and closing sponsor messages
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