In a classic display of partisan politics, President Joe Biden responded to Republican criticism of the defense spending included in the recent debt deal he reached with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. As he departed for Delaware, Biden shrugged off the concerns and confidently stated that if any further defense spending was needed, it would undoubtedly receive bipartisan approval.
Speaking with reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Biden addressed the Republican complaints about the defense budget included in the agreement. He reminded everyone that his budget, which specifically outlined defense funding, had already been passed by both chambers.
He reiterated, “Whatever the fighting force needs, if there’s another… they passed my budget. Obviously, if there’s any existential need for additional funding, I have no doubt we’d be able to get it because we’d jointly do it.”
But Republicans are not taking Biden’s dismissive remarks lightly. Prominent conservative Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina vowed to fight tooth and nail to “undo” what he referred to as a “disaster for defense” caused by the bipartisan debt ceiling bill.
In a tweet, Graham stated, “I will use all powers available to me in the Senate to have amendment votes to undo this catastrophe for defense… Take this absurd idea off the table.”
Graham’s frustration is shared by many Republicans who are deeply concerned about the impact of the debt deal on America’s national security apparatus. They argue that it is simply unacceptable to jeopardize our country’s defense capabilities at a time of great peril.
Despite the Republican outcry, Biden and McCarthy sealed the debt ceiling deal just days before the expected deadline to avoid a debt default. The agreement includes a 3% increase in defense spending for the next year, which falls short of the current annual inflation rate of over 4%.
It also maintains nondefense spending at roughly the same level in the 2024 fiscal year, with a modest 1% increase the following year, while providing for a 2-year debt limit increase.
As the House Rules Committee prepares to debate the debt ceiling bill on the floor, Republicans like Representative Rosendale are already voicing their strong opposition. Rosendale sees the $4 trillion debt deal as an insult to the American people and plans to vote against it.
In conclusion, Biden’s response to Republican criticism of defense spending in the debt deal only highlights the deep divide between the parties. While the president dismisses concerns, Republicans are resolute in their fight to safeguard national security.
The upcoming debates and votes on the debt ceiling bill will be critical in determining the future of America’s defense and fiscal stability.
Source Fox News