Pentagon officials have stepped up closed-door briefings to win lawmakers’ support for President Donald Trump’s record $1.5 trillion fiscal 2027 defense request, with $1.1 trillion in base discretionary funding and another $350 billion through reconciliation.
The White House says the request is needed to rebuild military readiness, replenish weapons and strengthen the defense industrial base. It lists critical munitions, expanded weapons production and President Donald Trump’s Golden Dome missile defense initiative among its priorities. Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg, Pentagon Comptroller Jules Hurst and Joint Chiefs Vice Chairman Gen. Christopher Mahoney briefed the Senate Armed Services Committee Thursday; Feinberg and Mahoney also met with House and Senate appropriators.
Rounds said regular funding needs 60 Senate votes, so Democrats’ support is necessary; he praised Thursday’s briefing as a step toward addressing it. The $350 billion reconciliation package could pass without Democrats if Republicans stay united, though lawmakers are considering smaller bills for immediate needs. Central Command estimated Iran war costs at $43.6 billion through Sept. 3, including $28.1 billion in weapons spending. In June, the White House separately requested about $87 billion in supplemental funds, including $67 billion for Pentagon expenses and replenishing munitions used during the conflict. Sen. Richard Blumenthal called the Pentagon’s case unconvincing and demanded details.
