Statement from Congresswoman Sara Jacobs on Racist Incidents on San Diego-Based Navy Warships

On Tuesday, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Mike Gilday condemned two separate racist incidents aboard the San Diego-based Navy warships, the USS Carl Vinson and the USS Lake Champlain. 

Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53), member of the House Armed Services Committee, releases the following statement: 

“I am outraged by the reports of racist incidents aboard the USS Carl Vinson and USS Lake Champlain. Racism, white supremacy, and hate have no place in our military. This is especially painful to see because, for generations, the United States Navy and military communities like ours in San Diego have been bonded by a shared sense of service and duty.   

“America’s military must reflect America’s values – their oath is to defend all of us, and our military is strongest when it is united and welcoming to all. Those who embrace racism and extremism are making a mockery of their oath to the country.  

“This troubling report follows the January attack on the Capitol, which featured a disproportionally large number of rioters and insurrectionists with military ties.  

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I want to be absolutely clear: our military leaders must take comprehensive action to root out extremism from our Armed Forces. Secretary Austin has expressed his commitment to root out this disease within the military. It is time for comprehensive action to address extremism in the military and to hold those who aren’t following their oath accountable.”