Democratic lawmakers are demanding explanations from the Pentagon and the Navy regarding conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier. This follows reports of multiple U.S. service members attempting to jump overboard.
Relatives of the approximately 5,000 sailors and Marines on the Lincoln have highlighted deteriorating conditions, inadequate provisions, and worsening mental health among crew members. Reports suggest at least two service members tried to leap from the vessel due to these issues.
The USS Abraham Lincoln departed its San Diego base in November and has remained at sea for over 200 days. This is after its planned route was redirected from the Pacific to the Middle East ahead of the U.S. war with Iran that started in late February.
Grievances concerning the aircraft carrier’s conditions emerged in April, which the Navy disputed. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth dismissed these as false information.
“Based on available information, we haven’t identified an increase in reports of suicidal thoughts or attempts on the ship,” stated a Navy spokesperson to Newsweek when addressing queries related to service members attempting to jump off the vessel.
The spokesperson emphasized the importance placed on the well-being of each service member, noting that religious, medical, and mental health professionals are on hand to assess and address any concerns.
On Monday, Democratic Representative Mike Levin from California reported that crew members aboard the Lincoln are lacking essential hygiene supplies, facing moldy showers, malfunctioning toilets, and insufficient hot water and food.
Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego urged the Navy Department to permit bipartisan Congressional visits to the Lincoln for an oversight investigation.
Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut expressed concern over the extended deployment of the carrier, emphasizing the increased dangers due to fatigue, delayed maintenance, and limited opportunities for rest and recovery.
The Lincoln has been out for nearly nine months, with a brief stop in Guam last December. Typical aircraft carrier deployments last between six and seven months, often including port calls for refueling and crew rest.
This story is developing and will receive updates as new information becomes available.