Congress Debates National Defense Authorization Act Amid Controversy

Congress has unveiled a $900 billion National Defense Authorization Act, which includes significant provisions aimed at reshaping U.S. military and economic strategies, particularly concerning China. According to Fox News, the bill enforces new investment restrictions and bans various Chinese technologies from Pentagon supply chains, while also expanding U.S. military support in the Indo-Pacific region, including funding for Taiwan's security.

The legislation includes a 4% pay raise for service members and mandates that the FBI notify Congress when investigating federal candidates, a provision that has sparked internal GOP tensions, particularly between House Speaker Mike Johnson and Rep.

Elise Stefanik, as reported by both the Washington Examiner and Deseret News. The NDAA also repeals the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force related to Iraq, reflecting a bipartisan agreement to limit presidential war powers.

However, notable omissions include the expansion of IVF coverage for military families and the proposed 'ROAD to Housing Act,' which failed to make it into the final text due to disagreements within the GOP leadership.

The bill is expected to pass through the House soon, aiming for a final vote before the end of the legislative calendar year.