Dozens of Democrats mutiny must-pass defense bill over GOP priorities
Original story by
Fox News•Sep 10•Politics, Defense

📰 Article Summary
The House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2026 with a vote of 231-196, marking a shift towards increased partisanship in its approval process. Notably, 17 Democrats supported the bill amid significant opposition to GOP-led amendments concerning transgender issues and automotive preferences for the Department of Defense. Prominent Democrats criticized the bill for focusing on divisive topics rather than enhancing national security. This development shows a departure from the historical bipartisan nature of the NDAA which traditionally united both parties in defense priorities.
📌 Key Facts
- Partisan Division: The NDAA for FY 2026 passed with notable partisan divisions, receiving support from only 17 Democrats, compared to a significant number of Republicans. This reflects a growing rift in Congress regarding defense spending and policy.
- Contentious Amendments: Amendments targeting transgender service members and abolishing preferences for electric vehicles were pivotal in the discussions. They passed predominantly along party lines, showcasing the contentious nature of recent defense debates.
- Democratic Opposition: Democratic leaders, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, vocally opposed the defense bill, criticizing it for prioritizing divisive issues over national security needs. This led some Democrats to threaten opposition to the final version of the bill.
- Historical Context: The NDAA has historically garnered bipartisan support for over 65 years, serving as a testament to Congress's cooperation in national defense. The recent discord marks a significant deviation from this tradition.
- Next Steps: As the House has passed its version of the NDAA, the Senate will now consider its own bill before both chambers need to reconcile their differences. This process will culminate with the final version being sent to President Trump for approval.
📂 Article Classification
Topic Tags: Politics
📍 Location
Washington D.C., United States
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