GOP Appropriators Reject $350 Billion Defense Reconciliation Plan as Trump Seeks $1.5 Trillion Budget
Updated
Updated · Federal News Network · Jun 10
GOP Appropriators Reject $350 Billion Defense Reconciliation Plan as Trump Seeks $1.5 Trillion Budget
3 articles · Updated · Federal News Network · Jun 10
Summary
Mitch McConnell and Susan Collins said a third reconciliation bill is effectively off the table, jeopardizing the $350 billion the Pentagon expects outside its $1.5 trillion defense request.
That gap reaches into specific programs: of $154 million sought for an F-35 power and thermal upgrade, only $10 million is in the base budget, with the rest tied to reconciliation.
Air Force Secretary Troy Meink said the full request is needed and warned the department would have to reprioritize if Congress does not provide all the funding, while DoD and OMB weigh other options.
Chris Coons echoed doubts that another package will pass, as lawmakers in both parties question whether Congress can move a third reconciliation bill with attention shifting toward the 2026 midterms.
The warning undercuts a White House strategy that used reconciliation to add $150 billion for defense last year, though House Armed Services Chairman Mike Rogers said Tuesday another defense bill "will have to happen."