Keeping Politics Out of the Base Closing Process

This research paper examines to evolution of the Base Realignment and Closing (BRAC) process from its inception through the most recent round of closings. Although originally designed to prevent politicians from interfering with a closings inside their constituency, the legislation was significantly undermined in 2005. Two specific cases, Ellsworth AFB in South Dakota and Groton Submarine Base in Connecticut, provided multiple examples of how politics have returned to apply pressure and possibly affect the outcome. Whether either of these bases should have been closed or remain open, was not the objective of this research. The argument is; that a there is a process in place, governed by law, and politicians should stay out of the process. There are specific areas where politicians can provide input to the process, but that have recently interfered beyond what was intended. The BRAC commissioners have a very daunting task of reviewing copious amounts of data, visiting multiple sites, and taking input from local communities. These are very knowledgeable people with years of experience. The have the trust of the President to make the right decisions and should therefore not be influenced by Federal, State or local politics. As threats continue to change and military force structure evolves, future closing rounds will be more crucial. It may be time to re-evaluate the entire process to prevent political interference and allow the Department of Defense to operate as efficiently as possible.