House passes Pentagon funding bill and a blueprint to unlock new dollars for Iran war : NPR

On Wednesday, House Republicans approved $1.1 trillion in military funding, marking a final legislative effort before departing Washington for a recess exceeding a month. This funding, part of the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), was approved by a narrow 216 to 212 vote, with the support of six Democrats. The bill now proceeds to the Senate, where its future is uncertain.

Traditionally, the NDAA receives bipartisan support, but this year it has become a partisan effort. Republicans describe the bill as a “generational investment in America’s national defense,” emphasizing innovation, lethality, and readiness to prepare for future challenges.

However, Democrats, including those typically supportive of military initiatives, are not in agreement. Rep. Adam Smith of Washington, the leading Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, expressed opposition, highlighting the inclusion of $1.15 trillion in discretionary spending as a point of contention. He stated, “I cannot and do not support meeting these needs by making massive cuts to critically important domestic programs and slashing taxes.”

To pass the bill in the Senate, Republicans will require Democratic support to meet the 60-vote threshold necessary for most legislation. Last week, Senate Democrats blocked a version of the bill, demanding limitations on President Trump’s military efforts in Iran.

This debate over the NDAA occurs as tensions persist within the Pentagon. Efforts to resolve the U.S.-Iran conflict have faltered, with both sides continuing to engage in hostilities. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reported that the war has already cost taxpayers $37.5 billion.

Recently, at least four U.S. service members were killed, raising the nation’s death toll to 18. Nearly 500 service members have been injured. Additionally, the average price for a gallon of gas in the U.S. has risen above four dollars, according to AAA.