WASHINGTON — The nation’s major defense policy bill next year could be in jeopardy.
The National Defense Authorization Act of 2024, passed by the House on Friday, includes several high-profile amendments that many Democrats find unacceptable.
The final House NDAA includes overturning the Pentagon’s abortion leave policy, restricting medical care for transgender soldiers, repealing military diversity initiatives, and barring the Pentagon from implementing climate change initiatives. Includes Republican amendments.
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said, “Radical plans forced on the military at the expense of readiness are now eliminated.”
“It was also an important victory for all Americans who want our military to be focused on our enemies overseas, not on wokeness,” said Rep. Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana).
The final vote was 219-210, with all but four Democrats voting no. Among the Democrats who voted against it was Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Virginia’s 3rd District).
“It is extremely disappointing that the historically bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act has been hijacked by extreme MAGA Republicans,” he said in a statement.
All eyes now turn to the Senate, which could vote on a version of the NDAA as early as Wednesday.
“It really smacks of hypocrisy to hear a member of Congress say, “I’m pro-military,” and then try to introduce completely non-military political poison into something like a defense bill.” the senator said. Warner (D-Va.).
On the House side, Hampton Roads members were divided on the amended NDAA. Republicans Rob Wittman and Jen Quiggans voted yes, and Democrats Bobby Scott and Jennifer McClellan voted no.