The House of Representatives passed a $1.15 trillion defense policy bill on Wednesday, after Republicans attached key legislative priorities to it. The bill includes provisions tied to President Trump’s voting restrictions—known as the SAVE Act—and a section supporting U.S.-Israel defense cooperation.
The passage came amid bipartisan opposition, with some members fighting against the Israel provision, Section 219. Despite the disagreement, the bill cleared the House. The move ties the entire Republican legislative agenda to the defense measure, as demanded by Trump.
The defense bill, typically a bipartisan must-pass piece of legislation, now carries controversial elements. The voting measure would impose stricter voter ID requirements, while the Israel provision aims to strengthen defense ties. The bill’s fate in the Senate remains uncertain.
The debate over the bill was marked by accusations of stoking hatred, with some lawmakers speaking out against the Israel provision. However, the House ultimately approved the spending package, sending it to the Senate for consideration.