Several Democratic lawmakers are demanding explanations from the Pentagon and the Navy regarding the situation on the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier. Reports have surfaced alleging that multiple U.S. service members on the vessel have attempted to jump overboard.
Family members of the approximately 5,000 sailors and Marines on the Lincoln have voiced concerns. They claim at least two U.S. personnel have attempted to leave the ship due to deteriorating conditions, lack of supplies, and declining mental health among the crew.
The carrier, which departed from San Diego in November, has exceeded 200 days at sea. It was rerouted from the Pacific to the Middle East in anticipation of the United States’ conflict with Iran that commenced in late February.
Complaints about the conditions on the Lincoln first emerged in April. At that time, the Navy denied the claims, and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth dismissed them as “fake news.” A Navy spokesperson told Newsweek that no increase in suicidal behaviors had been identified, and emphasized the availability of religious, medical, and mental health professionals on board.
“Based on information available to the command, we have not identified an increase in reported suicidal ideation or suicide attempts aboard the ship,” the spokesperson stated.
On Monday, California Representative Mike Levin highlighted issues of sailors lacking basic hygiene supplies. The crew had to contend with moldy showers, broken toilets, and limited access to hot water and food.
Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego urged the Department of the Navy to permit bipartisan congressional visits to the Lincoln for oversight investigations. Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal underscored the dangers of working on aircraft carriers, noting the amplified risks due to prolonged sea periods without adequate rest and maintenance.
The Lincoln’s deployment has lasted nearly nine months, with a brief stop in Guam in December. Standard carrier deployments last six to seven months, interspersed with port calls for refueling and crew rest.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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