Washington is abuzz as the House gears up to vote on a significant $900 billion defense policy bill. Lawmakers revealed the hefty 3,086-page document recently, which includes an additional $8 billion beyond what was requested by former President Trump.
House Speaker Mike Johnson highlighted that the bill aligns with Trump’s “Peace Through Strength” agenda. It aims to implement 15 of Trump’s executive orders, tackle what he calls “woke ideology” in the military, and increase border security.
Historically, this bill passes with bipartisan support. However, conflicts can arise among various members. For instance, GOP Rep. Elise Stefanik publicly criticized Johnson for delaying a measure that would require the FBI to inform Congress about counterintelligence investigations involving federal candidates. This provision was eventually added after the disagreement got public attention.
Another point of contention was the removal of a provision for expanding IVF coverage for military families, which drew criticism towards Johnson.
The legislation also aims to authorize the deployment of active-duty troops along the U.S.-Mexico border and introduce new missile defense measures. Service members are set to receive a 3.8% pay raise under the bill.
Significantly, the bill includes restrictions on transgender women participating in women’s sports at military academies, reflecting Republican priorities. However, some conservatives are expressing reservations about $400 million allocated for military aid to Ukraine over the next two fiscal years.
A unique aspect of the bill is a provision that would restrict Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s travel budget unless the Pentagon provides unedited footage of military actions against drug smuggling near Venezuela. It also mandates overdue reports from the Pentagon on the Ukraine conflict before funds are released.
In a noteworthy move, the legislation plans to repeal the legal justifications for military actions in Iraq from 1991 and 2003. Many lawmakers believe keeping these authorizations may lead to an overreach of presidential power. Both Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine and Republican Sen. Todd Young have remarked that it’s time to end these longstanding authorizations.
Moreover, the bill seeks to lift sanctions on Syria as per the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act and limits troop reduction in Europe.
The House Rules Committee quickly moved the bill forward, setting the stage for a vote. Some Republicans, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, have vowed to oppose the bill over foreign aid concerns. Yet, the support from certain Democrats could still pave the way for its passage.
Experts stress the importance of examining these bills closely. “The military budget reflects national priorities. It’s more than numbers; it shapes our defense strategy for years,” says former Pentagon official Dr. Sarah Thompson.
Recent surveys indicate that public opinion is split on military expenditures for Ukraine, with around 48% of Americans supporting aid and 42% opposing it, reflecting discussions happening nationwide.
The outcome of this vote will not just influence military spending but could also reshape America’s approach to global conflicts in the coming year. If the House approves the bill, it will move to the Senate for consideration.
