South Miami-Dade News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-28), a Member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), joined Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-02) in a letter to Department of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III urging him to stand with our ally the Democratic, Jewish State of Israel. Specifically, the letter urges the Department of Defense to assess the benefits of including Israel as part of the National Technology and Industrial Base (NTIB).

In a statement, Rep. Gimenez expressed his support for this initiative, saying, "Proud to join my friend Rep. Joe Wilson in a letter to the Department of Defense urging a review to include our dear friend Israel as part of the National Technology and Industrial Base (NTIB)." He highlighted Israel's strengths in defense and security, stating, "Israel, whose defense industry was born out of necessity, is one of the strongest military forces in the world, a global leader in defense and security innovation, and a key player ensuring regional stability and peacekeeping efforts in the Middle East. Including Israel in the NTIB would boost defense production, innovation, and overall capability."

Congressman Carlos Giménez, who represents Miami-Dade County and the Florida Keys, has a notable background as the only Cuban-born Member of the 118th Congress. He fled his homeland following the Communist takeover and brings a unique perspective to his roles in Congress. Giménez, the first career firefighter paramedic elected to the House of Representatives, has previously served as the Fire Chief of the City of Miami and Mayor of Miami-Dade County. He currently serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the Homeland Security Committee, and the Select Committee on China.