Patronis Protects the Blue Angels from Government Shutdowns

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Patronis introduces the Special Operating Authority for Rehearsal (SOAR) Act, which protects the United States Navy Blue Angels during a federal government shutdown to ensure safety and readiness. This legislation will ensure Blue Angels airshows continue in the Pensacola region despite any Democratic shutdowns.

“This is home for the Blue Angels. Federal government shutdowns hurt our economy and undermine the men and women who serve our nation,” said Congressman Patronis. “The Blue Angels represent excellence, service, and unity, and they deserve stability and leadership that puts our nation and those who serve it first.”

During past shutdowns, the Blue Angels were unable to perform their Homecoming Airshow due to a lack of funding for basic needs, such as fuel, aircraft maintenance, repairs, and required updates, which led to the cancellation of their Homecoming air show and halted essential training.

The Blue Angels are handpicked from the Navy and Marine Corps and serve on multi-year rotations. Continued training is critical to the safety transition and graduation of servicemembers. Disruptions delay training and pose a threat to the team’s safety.

Read the full bill text HERE.

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