President Joe Biden’s recent debt deal with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is facing intense Republican criticism, particularly regarding defense spending. However, Biden appears unfazed by the backlash, confident that any additional defense funding needed will garner bipartisan approval.
During his departure for Delaware, Biden addressed reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, brushing off the concerns raised by Republicans. He pointed out that his defense budget had already been passed by both chambers, emphasizing, “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 the Republican response to Biden’s dismissive remarks has been fiery. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, a prominent conservative voice, pledged to fight against what he called a “disaster for defense” caused by the bipartisan debt ceiling bill. On Twitter, Graham vowed, “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 numerous Republicans who argue that jeopardizing America’s national security apparatus is unacceptable, especially during these challenging times. They strongly believe that the defense spending included in the agreement falls short of what is necessary to ensure the country’s safety.
Despite the Republican backlash, Biden and McCarthy finalized the debt ceiling deal, narrowly avoiding a potential debt default. The agreement features a 3% rise in defense spending for the next year, which is lower than the current annual inflation rate of over 4%. Nondefense spending will remain relatively steady in the 2024 fiscal year, with a modest 1% increase the following year. Additionally, the deal includes a 2-year debt-limit increase.
As the House Rules Committee prepares for the floor debate on the debt ceiling bill, Republican Representative Rosendale has already expressed his strong opposition to the $4 trillion debt deal, viewing it as an insult to the American people.
In conclusion, Biden’s response to the Republican backlash on defense spending in the debt deal showcases the deep ideological divisions between the parties. While the president remains confident, Republicans are determined to safeguard national security. The upcoming debates and votes on the debt ceiling bill will play a crucial role in shaping America’s defense capabilities and financial stability.
Source Fox News
