Palin Demands Missile Defense Funding

Gov. Sarah Palin has requested stimulus funds for an Alaskan launch facilty. She criticizes Obama's proposed cuts in missile defense spending.

April 6, 2009
Palin pushes for missile defense funds
Posted: 07:30 PM ET


(CNN) – Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin’s office reacted Monday to North Korea’s missile test with a statement that “reaffirmed Alaska’s commitment to protecting America from rogue nation missile attacks.”

Palin herself criticized proposed Obama administration cuts proposed to missile defense programs. “I am deeply concerned with North Korea’s development and testing program which has clear potential of impacting Alaska, a sovereign state of the United States, with a potentially nuclear armed warhead,” she said in the statement.“

Palin added, "I can’t emphasize enough how important it is that we continue to develop and perfect the global missile defense network. Alaska’s strategic location and the system in place here have proven invaluable in defending the nation….

“Our early opposition to reduced funding for the Missile Defense Agency is proving to be well-founded during this turbulent time. I continue to support the development and implementation of a defensive missile shield based in Alaska. We are strategically placed to defend the critical assets of the United States and our allies in the Pacific Theater.”

The statement also stressed Palin’s request for stimulus funds for a commercial rocket launch facility owned and operated by a public corporation of the state of Alaska.