Breaking Down the NDAA
Analysis of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act Executive Summary The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 (S. 1071, as amended by House Rules Committee Print 119–16, released on Sunday) authorizes $900.6 billion in defense spending - a $8 billion increase over the Trump administration’s request while remaining within the spirit of the Fiscal Responsibility Act via targeted waivers. This omnibus legislation funds military modernization, personnel welfare, and deterrence against China while incorporating partisan riders on social and cultural issues. As the 64th consecutive NDAA, it reflects bipartisan consensus on core security but reveals deep divides over culture-war…