The STRATCOM notification prompted Republicans to push for expanding the U.S. nuclear arsenal beyond the current modernization efforts. Next year's Republican-controlled House is expected to focus on concerns over diversity policies within the Defense Department. The compromise bill provides additional security aid to Ukraine and Taiwan, even as it drops House provisions that would have restricted arms transfers. The GOP will control the House next year, but the narrow lead and conservative divide could complicate their agenda. Houses Armed Services Committee says Ukraine is "spending the money really well; that’s why they’re winning." McCarthy's threat comes as Republicans and Democrats are negotiating a final, bicameral version of the bill with the aim of passing it in December. Several vulnerable Armed Services Democrats defied expectations and held onto their seats. During the 2022 election cycle, the five largest defense firms contributed nearly $2 million to Republicans who voted against certifying results. Defense Department officials will cover troops' travel expenses for abortions in certain cases. Proposal aims at ramp up the U.S. defense industrial base and helping European allies arm up. Load More