McConnell Prepares For Major New Fight
Washington is heading for a major budget battle as the House and Senate clash over the annual defense spending bill — with President Donald Trump pressing for fiscal discipline and an America First approach.
Senate Pushes $853 Billion Pentagon Budget
The Senate Appropriations Committee approved a massive $853 billion package for the Pentagon — nearly $22 billion more than President Trump requested. The bill, spearheaded by Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), includes:
- Billions for munitions and shipbuilding
- A 3.8% troop pay raise
- Expanded aid for Ukraine, NATO, and Taiwan
- New investments in missile stockpiles depleted by global conflicts
McConnell insists Trump’s budget “underestimated the challenge” facing America and argues the U.S. must expand spending to rebuild military power abroad.
House Backs Trump’s Leaner Plan
The House, however, passed a slimmer $831.5 billion version — closely aligned with Trump’s original request. It excludes Ukraine funding, cuts out Biden-era diversity and abortion provisions, and focuses directly on U.S. priorities. The bill narrowly passed 221-209 along party lines.
House conservatives say endless foreign aid drains U.S. resources, warning that America must rebuild its own defenses before bankrolling Ukraine’s war with Russia.
Ukraine Aid: The Flashpoint in Congress
The Ukraine debate is at the heart of the fight. The Senate bill includes:
- $800 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative
- $225 million for the Baltic Security Initiative
But many House Republicans — echoing Trump’s America First agenda — are demanding that money be redirected to U.S. troops, veterans, and border security.
Last year, Congress approved $61 billion for Ukraine under Biden. Conservatives argue it’s time to put America first and stop writing blank checks overseas.
What Happens Next?
Both chambers must reconcile their sharply different bills in September. Then the final package goes to President Trump — who has the power to sign or veto the legislation.
For many conservatives, the stakes are clear:
- Should taxpayer dollars fund Ukraine’s war — or America’s soldiers?
- Should Washington keep writing massive checks abroad — or invest in U.S. security at home?
Trump has already signaled he will not hesitate to veto a bloated budget that fails to put America First.
