Senate Advances $895 Billion Defense Bill with 83-12 Vote, Includes 14.5% Pay Raise, Final Vote Possible Tuesday

Dec 16, 2024, 11:37 PM

The U.S. Senate has advanced the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with a significant bipartisan vote, breaking a filibuster with 83 votes in favor and 12 against. This defense policy bill, totaling $895 billion, includes provisions for a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers and restrictions on taxpayer-funded transgender surgeries. The Senate's current voting reflects a stark contrast to the recent partisan divide seen in the House, where many Democrats opposed the bill. Voting is expected to continue, with a final vote possible as early as Tuesday. Last year's cloture vote on the NDAA was similarly supported, with a 85-15 outcome.