Congress’ 65-year defense bill streak could be in jeopardy

A long-standing tradition in U.S. defense policy is at risk this year as Congress grapples with deep partisan divisions over the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill, which has passed without failure for 65 years, now faces resistance due to its massive funding request, exceeding $1.15 trillion—a record amount that has intensified debates over military spending priorities. Lawmakers must reconcile stark differences on budget levels, defense strategy, and potential cuts before the fiscal year deadline, raising concerns about the Pentagon’s future policy framework. The outcome could reshape how the U.S. approaches national security funding for years to come.

Congress’ annual defense authorization bill is on shaky ground this year amid partisan infighting, threatening to upend the legislation’s unblemished 65-year streak of passage. The must-pass Pentagon policy bill, known as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), is facing an uphill climb due to its historically high $1.15 trillion request — a figure that climbs...