Chrissy Houlahan

A major defense bill, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), faces opposition from some Democratic lawmakers due to concerns over the war in Iran. The $1 trillion bill, which typically has bipartisan support, is stalled in the Senate while the House version advanced. Republicans are also seeking to pass funding through a separate reconciliation bill.

A major defense bill, the National Defense Authorization Act, faces uncertainty in Congress as Democratic lawmakers oppose it over concerns about the war in Iran and lack of accountability. The $1 trillion bill passed the House but was stalled in the Senate, with Republicans attempting a separate reconciliation effort. House lawmakers will leave for recess soon, adding time pressure.

A major defense bill faces uncertainty as House Democrats oppose it over concerns about the war in Iran and lack of accountability. The $1 trillion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) typically has bipartisan support but is stalled in the Senate, with House lawmakers passing it while divisions persist over funding and transparency.

U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten is leading House Democrats in demanding answers from the Department of Defense regarding the rescinding of influenza vaccine requirements, which is linked to the death of airman Keon McDaniel during an outbreak at Lackland Air Force Base. Lawmakers requested a formal review of the circumstances surrounding McDaniel's death and information for his family, as well as a briefing on the outbreak and policy changes.

Air Force leaders testified to Congress that the MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aircraft was the MVP in Operation Epic Fury against Iran, while the service's fiscal 2027 budget request allocates significantly more funding to crewed fighters like the F-35 and F-47. Lawmakers challenged the disconnect between the Air Force's praise for unmanned systems and actual budget allocation, with the MQ-9 fleet shrinking to 135 aircraft after 24 losses exposed vulnerabilities to modern air defenses.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced Democratic criticism during a House hearing over tensions regarding an Iran war, a $1.5 trillion Pentagon budget request, and the dismissal of top military officials. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), a former Air Force officer, challenged Hegseth on his firing decisions.

Pennsylvania House Democrats show reluctance to endorse Sen. John Fetterman for re-election in 2028 due to his controversial stances, particularly his opposition to the Democratic Party's position on Israel and support for Donald Trump's policies. Fetterman faces internal criticism and potential challenges from fellow Democrats eyeing Senate bids.