A crucial vote in the Senate regarding military funding during the ongoing federal government shutdown concluded with a 50-44 result, reflecting deep partisan divides. The bill, which was approved by the House, failed to advance in the Senate largely due to the chamber’s filibuster rules requiring a minimum of 60 votes.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota voted against the military funding measure as a strategic move to expedite a potential revival of the funding initiative. His action followed a Senate vote that determined the failure of a separate bill aimed at funding the entire government. The situation has raised concerns among lawmakers about the implications of the ongoing government shutdown on national security and military readiness.
Opposition to the defense funding bill was voiced primarily by Democrats in the House, with Minnesota Rep. Betty McCollum, the highest-ranking Democrat on the military funding oversight panel, expressing strong disapproval. She criticized the bill for making cuts to U.S. assistance for Ukraine, rolling back vaccine mandates, and restricting service members’ access to abortion services.
In the Senate, Thune condemned the Democrats’ decision to filibuster, claiming that such a move reflects dysfunction within their ranks. He noted, “Filibustering defense appropriations bill, which should garner overwhelming support, suggests a level of dysfunction I can’t explain.”
In contrast, Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut indicated his willingness to support a military appropriations bill but firmly rejected the House’s proposed amendments, which he referred to as “poison pills.” He remained committed to supporting the men and women serving in the military but emphasized the need for a clean bill to do so.
Sen. Jeanne Shaheen from New Hampshire acknowledged the importance of returning to a bipartisan approach in the appropriations process, asserting the necessity of ensuring both national security and the financial wellbeing of service members. Shaheen expressed optimism that a collaborative effort in Congress could alleviate the concerns over health insurance premiums impacting millions of Americans soon.
As the impasse continues, senators like Shaheen hope that renewed bipartisan discussions can pave the way for a more effective resolution, benefiting both military personnel and the broader American public.