Iowa Gov.: ‘Don’t cut the National Guard’

Gov. Terry Branstad (R-Iowa) hopes to deliver a message to President Obama on Monday on behalf of all governors: don’t cut the size of the National Guard.

{mosads}“The message from all the governors of both parties is don’t cut the National Guard,” Branstad said on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe.”

The Republican said he understands the Obama administration plans to scale back the size of the United States Army after building it up post-9/11.

“Now, the Army is recommending major reductions in the National Guard instead of the regular Army, and we think that’s a big mistake,” he said. “That’s the message I’m going to bring to the president if I get an opportunity to ask a question.”

Branstad’s request comes as Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel prepares to unveil the Pentagon’s 2015 budget.

Read more on The Hill.