| Source | Latest linked headline | Age |
|---|---|---|
| US news | The Guardian | HEGSETH CRITICIZED FOR LOCKING DEMOCRATS OUT OF CLOSED-DOOR DEFENSE BUDGET TALKS | 54 mins ago |
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has been criticized by Republican lawmakers for excluding Democrats from classified briefings on defense spending, according to US news | The Guardian. This exclusion has occurred on at least two trips to Capitol Hill in recent weeks, where Hegseth pitched the record $1.5tn military budget increase. The move has sparked concern that it could jeopardize the passage of the budget.
The briefings, which were closed-door sessions, were attended by Republican lawmakers, but Democrats were repeatedly excluded, as reported by lawmakers from both parties. The Pentagon's approach has raised concerns among Republican senators, who warn that it could impact the budget's passage. Details on the specific discussions during these briefings are limited, but the exclusion of Democrats has been a point of contention.
The exclusion of Democrats from these briefings matters because it could affect the bipartisan support needed for the passage of the military budget increase. The move has significant implications for the defense spending bill, which is a key legislative priority.