The US House of Representatives narrowly approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes a record $1.15 trillion defense budget for fiscal year 2027. The vote was 216 in favor to 212 against.
All but seven Republicans supported the bill, while all but six Democrats opposed it. Democrats objected to the massive Pentagon budget at a time when President Donald Trump and Republicans are cutting social spending.
Iran war and Israel cooperation
Democrats also opposed the ongoing war with Iran. According to the latest Pentagon estimates, the war has cost $37.5 billion so far. The bill also included a provision significantly expanding military technology cooperation between the US and Israel. This provision was adopted despite calls from many Americans, particularly on the left, to reduce support for Israel due to its genocidal war in Gaza over the past three years.
Republican defense
Republicans argued that the spending exceeding a trillion dollars was necessary to support the military engaged in war with Iran, develop defense systems, purchase equipment, and provide troops with up to a 7% pay raise as well as build barracks and family housing.
Emergency budget package
The House also approved the $95 billion emergency budget framework and sent it to the Senate. Of this package, $73 billion was allocated to the armed forces and intelligence agencies, particularly for operations against Iran, $12 billion to aid farmers hurt by the trade war, and $10 billion to election-related programs as part of Trump's efforts to impose new voting restrictions nationwide.
The proposed budget is seen as the Republicans' last major legislative push before the midterm elections in November. The election results will determine whether Republicans can maintain their majority in Congress and, consequently, the course of the remainder of Trump's second term.
