Internal House GOP memo reveals what Republicans are celebrating in $895B defense bill
The House GOP is celebrating a major win with the release of a new 16-page memo detailing victories in the annual defense policy bill, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The $895.2 billion allocated towards defense and national security will see significant changes in key areas such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), border security, and green energy.
The memo obtained by Fox News Digital highlights the Republican lawmakers’ success in pushing back against what they call “radical woke ideology” in the military. It extends a Pentagon hiring freeze on DEI-related roles and bans the Defense Department from contracting with advertising companies that blacklist conservative news sources. Additionally, it cuts funding for the Biden administration’s “Countering Extremist Activity Working Group” and prohibits climate change programs within the Pentagon.
On the issue of border security, the NDAA supports the deployment of National Guard troops to assist Border Patrol at the southwest border. The document also emphasizes quality of life improvements for U.S. service members, including a 14.5% pay increase for junior enlisted troops and increased access to childcare for service members.
Despite these victories, a provision in the NDAA that bans funding for transgender medical treatments for children of service members has sparked partisan frustrations. Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., expressed concerns about supporting the bill due to these measures.
House Armed Services Committee Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., praised the limitations on progressive policies in the NDAA, stating that the legislation provides the military with the tools needed to deter threats from countries like China, Russia, and Iran. The bill is expected to undergo a vote later this week.
Overall, the memo gives insight into the GOP’s plans for national security in the upcoming year, with a focus on countering threats from China and Iran. While the NDAA traditionally garners bipartisan support, the inclusion of controversial provisions may lead to divisions among lawmakers.
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