Suozzi Leads Bipartisan Call for USMMA to Anchor Trump’s Maritime Revitalization Strategy
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May 23, 2025
Washington, DC – Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-NY), joined by Congressman Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) and members of the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) Board of Visitors, are urging the Trump Administration to make USMMA the centerpiece of its national maritime strategy.
In a letter sent this week, the Members express support for the goals of President Trump’s Shipbuilding Executive Order. The Order lays out a plan to rebuild America’s maritime industrial base, strengthen supply chains, and expand the merchant marine workforce. The Order specifically directs the development of a maritime action plan (MAP), which includes a long-term master plan and capital investment strategy for Kings Point.
“We cannot rebuild maritime power without first rebuilding the institution that produces the officers who will lead it,” the letter states. “Long-term modernization of USMMA must not be a side initiative—it should be a foundational element of this strategy.”
The letter calls on the Administration to formally adopt a comprehensive Campus Modernization Plan, using the ten-year Full Speed Ahead proposal as a framework. That plan, widely endorsed by alumni and maritime leaders, would overhaul aging infrastructure while keeping the Academy fully operational.
“Kings Point delivers one of the best returns on investment of any college in America,” said Suozzi. “Graduates leave with top-tier training, nearly 100% job placement, and a service commitment that strengthens our national security. I’ve been excited about the Academy’s potential for years but frustrated by the lack of action. Now is the time to match that potential with the federal investment it deserves.”
The Members emphasized that this moment of momentum must be matched with real, sustained investment.
“America’s sealift readiness depends on a strong U.S.-flag fleet,” the letter concludes. “That fleet depends on merchant mariners. And those mariners come from Kings Point.”
Co-signers include Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI), Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ), and Rep. David Valadao (R-CA).
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