Defense Defection: Senate Democrats Flip on the Troops

Washington, D.C. – After proudly advancing the FY26 Defense appropriations bill through committee with a 26 to 3 bipartisan vote, Senate Democrats executed a full retreat on the floor. They blocked the same legislation they once hailed for strengthening deterrence, investing in U.S. defense capabilities, and delivering critical resources for our troops. Instead of joining Republicans to end pay uncertainty for service members and ensure stability for the military, Democrats chose to extend their needless shutdown and further obstruct efforts towards full-year appropriations funding. At a moment that demanded leadership and fidelity to their own votes, Senate Democrats instead turned their backs on the very troops – and the very bill – they once supported.

 Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) said, “The bill didn’t change; their political calculus did. Senate Democrats abandoned our military and their own record on the legislation. Besides the blatant hypocrisy, not funding our nation’s defense in a dangerous world for the sake of partisan games is the height of irresponsibility. Our men and women in uniform don’t walk away from their duties when things get hard. Yet, they just watched Senators do exactly that. This would have been another bill sent to conference – one that, once complete, would have ensured paychecks for those who serve. Certainty for our heroes and the many programs and investments critical to our national security is something every member should support. Each day this shutdown goes on, the harder the timeline becomes on full-year appropriations bills. Sidelining Congress and the opportunities we have to advance regular order – and our Article I responsibilities – is a disservice to the institution and the American people. If Senate Democrat Appropriators can’t be for keeping government open, supporting our troops, or advancing the very bill they helped write – what exactly are they for?”

Defense Subcommittee Chairman Ken Calvert (R-CA) said, “Funding our core federal government functions is the constitutional responsibility of the Appropriations Committee and Congress. I believe nothing is more important than providing the resources necessary to keep America safe and support our troops. By voting against the consideration of a bipartisan defense appropriations bill, Senate Democrats just rejected the opportunity to join Republicans in crafting this critical legislation. If Senate Democrats continue to allow the political pressure from their radical base to put them in a state of legislative paralysis, Congress will remain unable to fulfill our constitution role, putting our country and its national security in danger.”
 

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