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The United States House of Representatives has narrowly approved a sweeping defence authorisation measure for the 2027 fiscal year, advancing a proposal that would allocate a record $1.15 trillion to military programmes despite fierce opposition from Democrats.
The legislation, known as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), secured passage in a 216-212 vote on Wednesday.
Support came overwhelmingly from Republicans, while nearly all Democratic lawmakers opposed the measure.
Democrats criticised the proposal for significantly increasing military expenditure while the Trump administration and congressional Republicans continue reducing funding for several domestic welfare programmes.
They also expressed concern over the escalating conflict with Iran, arguing that the war has already placed a heavy financial burden on the United States.
According to Pentagon figures, military operations linked to the conflict have cost approximately $37.5 billion.
Republicans defended the spending package, saying the funding is necessary to strengthen national security, modernise defence capabilities, procure advanced military equipment and sustain operations overseas.
The bill also includes pay increases of up to 7% for service members, alongside investments in military accommodation and family housing.
Another contentious element of the legislation would deepen defence technology collaboration between the United States and Israel.
Democratic lawmakers argued that expanding military cooperation remains controversial amid growing public concern over civilian casualties resulting from Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
For decades, the NDAA has been regarded as one of Congress’s most dependable annual pieces of legislation, becoming law every year for the past 65 years.
However, this year’s proposal faces a more difficult path because of disagreements over defence spending, the conflict with Iran, military assistance to Israel and Ukraine, and debates surrounding policies affecting transgender personnel in the armed forces.
Its progress has also become more uncertain after House Republicans linked the defence measure to the SAVE America Act, a voting reform proposal strongly backed by President Donald Trump.
The move could complicate consideration in the Senate, where Republicans are not believed to have sufficient support to approve the election-related legislation.
Last week, Senate Democrats blocked consideration of their chamber’s version of the defence bill.
Nevertheless, Republican leaders have indicated they intend to make another attempt before lawmakers leave Washington for the August recess.
The NDAA must still pass several legislative stages before becoming law.
Traditionally, both chambers of Congress approve separate versions before negotiators reconcile the differences into a single compromise measure.
That final version must then receive approval from both the House and Senate before being sent to President Trump, who will decide whether to sign or reject it.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong