(Washington, D.C.)  In a meeting with several top level officials, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers urged the Secretary of Defense and the Air Force to ensure a fair, open and transparent acquisition process.  The meeting yesterday came a day before the Air Force released its request for proposal (RFP) for a new fleet of refueling tankers to replace the aging KC-135’s. 

“The Department of Defense and the Air Force assured me that they are documenting their internal work, guaranteeing the entire process is transparent,” McMorris Rodgers said.  “The responses to my concerns about a fair and transparent process, together with the comprehensive strategy outlined by DOD, demonstrated to me that the Pentagon is prepared to move forward in the most fair, effective, and transparent manner possible.  We cannot let this process fail again.  A first-rate Air Force demands that the most advanced technology and aircraft are in place and ready when necessary."

Since coming to Congress in 2005, McMorris Rodgers has been working to protect and expand the role of Fairchild Air Force Base, the largest employer in Eastern Washington.  The KC-X Tanker competition process started in 2006 and McMorris Rodgers has continued to ensure it remains the Air Force’s number one priority. 

Contact:
Destry Henderson
202-225-2006
202-279-0418