Blocking Defense Bill

The Senate Democrats blocked the $1.15 trillion annual defense authorization bill due to partisan disagreements over defense and non-defense spending levels. The motion failed 50-46, needing 60 votes. Four senators missed the vote. The bill includes a 3.6% pay raise for troops and funds for military families. Democrats opposed it citing the resumption of military conflict with Iran and Trump's failure to seek congressional authorization. Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker called the Democratic move unprecedented. The speaker criticized the lack of bipartisan cooperation and the worsening fiscal situation under Trump's administration, highlighting the uncontrolled deficit and spending.