Top GOP senator slams Trump-era budget for 'gutting' U.S. military strength
As Trump’s defense budget slashes deep into military funding, lawmakers from both sides raise alarms over national security, global commitments, and the future strength of U.S. forces.
Senator Roger Wicker, the top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, has expressed strong criticism of President Trump's proposed defense budget for fiscal year 2026. Wicker contends that the budget, which maintains defense spending at $892.6 billion—the same nominal amount as the previous year—effectively reduces military funding when adjusted for inflation. He argues that this approach undermines the nation's military capabilities and compromises national security.
The White House defends the budget by emphasizing its focus on rebuilding the military, enhancing deterrence, and promoting national security. However, Wicker believes that the flat funding level limits the President's flexibility in military operations and negotiations. He warns that the budget could hinder the U.S. military's readiness and its ability to respond to emerging threats.
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GOP pushes $150B Defense plan amid White House budget clash and rising national debt concerns
In addition to the defense budget, congressional Republicans are planning to introduce a $150 billion defense package as part of a broader $5 trillion tax cut initiative. This package aims to support the President's agenda of achieving peace through strength, deterring Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific, and revitalizing the defense industrial base. However, the proposed tax cuts are expected to add $5.7 trillion to the national debt over the next decade.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed the Pentagon to identify $50 billion in programs that could be cut to fund President Trump's military priorities. The targeted cuts include programs related to climate change, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, as well as other areas deemed as excessive bureaucracy. The savings are intended to be redirected toward border security, building a domestic version of the Iron Dome missile defense system, and other strategic initiatives.
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Lawmakers warn Defense cuts threaten military readiness as budget faces intense Congressional review
These proposed cuts have drawn criticism from lawmakers who are concerned about their impact on troop readiness and advanced weapons systems. The reductions are seen as more severe than the 2013 sequestration cuts and contradict the planned increase in Pentagon spending by Congress. Lawmakers argue that such drastic cuts could compromise the U.S. military's effectiveness and its ability to fulfill its global commitments.
Senator Roger Wicker blasts Trump’s 2026 defense budget request, warning it would “cripple our military capabilities and support for the troops”. Photo: X
The defense budget proposal will now undergo congressional scrutiny and debate before any appropriations are finalized. Lawmakers are expected to weigh in on the proposed spending levels and priorities in the coming weeks and months, considering the potential implications for national security and fiscal policy. The outcome of these deliberations will determine the final shape of the defense budget and its alignment with the nation's strategic objectives.
