Senate Passes $883.7B Defense Bill

The U.S. Senate has just passed the National Defense Authorization Act, which won approval in bipartisan fashion.

The bill supports a 3% increase in defense spending, meaning a whopping $883.7 billion will now be dedicated toward national security.

“While no bill is perfect, the passage of the defense authorization bill makes us a stronger nation and provides certainty and predictability to our armed forces at a time of growing threats,” said Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC).

Democrat Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, also shared his thoughts.

“This NDAA takes care of our servicemembers and their families, providing the largest pay raise in decades and improving housing, education, and childcare access,” Reed said in a statement.

Much of the Senate was proud that both parties proved they could work together for the good of the country’s security.

“Our bill should signal to China, Russia, and others that we will not accept a world where America does not have the best fighting force,” said Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS).