Washington: Democratic senators in the US Congress have called for an investigation into the conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, as concerns grow over the welfare of nearly 5,000 sailors and Marines serving on the aircraft carrier.
The calls for an inquiry follow reports of food shortages, contaminated water, broken plumbing, poor living conditions and growing mental health problems among the crew during the ship’s unusually long deployment. Reports have also alleged that some personnel attempted to jump overboard amid severe psychological stress.
Senators Raise Concerns Over Extended Deployment
Senator Richard Blumenthal has written to US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth seeking details about the conditions faced by personnel aboard the carrier.
Blumenthal said the USS Abraham Lincoln has been deployed for more than 250 days and has spent more than 200 consecutive days without returning to port, setting a record for consecutive days at sea.
The prolonged deployment has reportedly placed significant physical and psychological pressure on the crew. Families of sailors and Marines have also raised concerns with Navy leadership, particularly over food supplies, living conditions and the lack of a clear timeline for their loved ones to return home.
Reports of Mental Health Crisis and Suicide Attempts
The situation has become more serious following reports of severe mental health problems among some crew members.
According to reports cited by lawmakers, there have been attempts by personnel to jump overboard, while families have described the psychological strain caused by the extended deployment.
Lawmakers have also raised concerns about reports of moldy showers, broken toilets, limited hot water, rationed meals and long work shifts of up to 12 to 16 hours without regular days off.
However, the US Navy has disputed some of the reports, saying the wellbeing of its sailors remains a priority and that personnel have access to clean water, meals and mental-health support.
USS Abraham Lincoln’s Deployment
The USS Abraham Lincoln left San Diego, California, on November 21, 2025, initially for operations in the South China Sea.
The aircraft carrier was later redirected to the Middle East as tensions escalated ahead of US and Israeli military operations against Iran that began on February 28.
The unusually long deployment has intensified concerns among military families and lawmakers, who are now calling for greater oversight of the conditions aboard the carrier.
Senators Seek Accountability
Lawmakers say military deployments may be necessary for national security, but the health, safety and basic needs of service members must not be overlooked.
The latest calls for an investigation are aimed at determining whether the sailors and Marines aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln are receiving adequate food, water, medical care and safe working conditions during the extended deployment.
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