Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) stated Sunday that reported mental health issues among service members on the USS Abraham Lincoln indicate a lack of concern for troop well-being from President Trump. Speaking on ABC’s “This Week,” Gallego, a former Marine, said the administration’s handling of extended deployments suggests the president views military personnel as tools for showing strength rather than as individuals with families and personal needs.
The criticisms follow reports from families of service members on the USS Lincoln that multiple sailors attempted to jump overboard during a deployment that has lasted more than 260 days. The aircraft carrier, which carries approximately 5,000 sailors and Marines, has been stationed in the Middle East since Nov. 21 of last year to support the U.S. war with Iran.
President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have denied reports of an increase in suicide attempts on the vessel. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao stated that while a "small" number of mental health cases were treated, there was no loss of life. Cao also noted that officials had to limit calls home due to a high "operational threat" and adjust meal plans when fresh supplies were unavailable. Trump stated Friday that the ship is scheduled to be replaced by the USS George Washington as part of a planned rotation.
The situation has created a divide between military leadership and congressional oversight. Senate and House Democrats, including Gallego and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), are demanding a bipartisan visit to the carrier to investigate conditions firsthand. This friction could influence future military retention, as Gallego suggested that service members may "think twice" about reenlisting if they feel leadership is downplaying the personal sacrifices required by year-long deployments. The outcome of these probes may set a precedent for how the Department of Defense manages and reports on mental health during active conflict zones.
For the personnel currently aboard the Lincoln, relief is tied to the arrival of the USS George Washington. While President Trump indicated the rotation would happen "very shortly," a specific date for the Lincoln's return to port has not been publicly confirmed. Until the transition is complete, the 5,000 personnel remain under current operational constraints, including restricted contact with their families in the United States. Further congressional hearings or a potential site visit by lawmakers remain pending as Democrats continue to press Defense Secretary Hegseth for formal answers.