Senators Call For Bipartisan Support

America’s military is facing a growing challenge that threatens national security: rising obesity and poor nutrition among service members. Now, a Republican and Democrat senator are teaming up to fix it — showing that protecting our troops’ health is one issue where both parties can agree.

Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS), an Army veteran and physician, and Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) have introduced the Commissary Healthy Options and Servicemember Wellness (CHOW) Act, a proposal designed to help troops make healthier food choices on base.

The plan would create a pilot coupon program, allowing service members to purchase nutritious meals and fresh groceries at on-base commissaries, making it easier and more affordable to avoid fast food and ultra-processed junk foods that harm long-term health and readiness.

“Healthy troops are ready troops,” Marshall said, stressing that proper nutrition is essential for a strong military. “Right now, 20% of our troops are obese and 70% are overweight. One of the top reasons people are discharged from the military is because they can’t pass their physical fitness tests.”

Warnock added that if the program succeeds, Congress should expand it nationwide to strengthen both food security and America’s defense readiness.

Marshall also noted that many bases already stock healthy foods, but not all service members can afford them. The CHOW Act aims to bridge that gap, giving troops better access to the nutrition they need to stay fit and mission-ready.

Why It Matters

This initiative comes at a time when obesity has become a leading threat to military preparedness, impacting recruitment, retention, and the overall strength of the U.S. Armed Forces. A stronger, healthier military isn’t just about physical fitness — it’s about ensuring America’s security and sovereignty for generations to come.

With bipartisan support, the CHOW Act has a strong chance of becoming law, proving that when it comes to protecting our troops and defending our nation, commonsense solutions can still unite Congress.