Senate Passes Defense Policy Legislation in Rare Bipartisan Move

The Senate passed its version of the annual defense authorization bill for fiscal 2026 in a fleeting moment of cooperation across the aisle amid partisan tensions over the government shutdown.

The defense policy bill (S. 2296) had been lingering as senators tackled other priorities, including votes to reopen the government and confirm President Donald Trump’s nominees. The measure, which passed on a 77-20 vote, is considered must-pass because it authorizes troop pay and military construction projects as well as weapons and geostrategic policy.

The Senate on Thursday defeated several Democratic-driven provisions. One was an amendment from Minority Leader ...