House appropriators OK rebukes to recent DOD scandals in budget bill
Republicans inserted language restricting military actions on U.S. soil and blocking unsecure communications among senior officials in their 2026 budget.
Pentagon & Congress
Hegseth won’t rule out military actions against Greenland, Panama
The defense secretary dodged questions from lawmakers about possible Defense Department plans against the allied territories.
House Dems offer bill to keep transgender troops in the ranks
The legislation could force a public vote by House defense lawmakers on whether transgender individuals should be allowed to serve in the military.
Senators demand new investigation into former Gen. Milley’s conduct
Republican lawmakers are asking for punishment against the former Joint Chiefs Chairman for perceived moves undermining civilian control of the military.
VA drops secondary review rule for community care medical appointments
Congress last year passed legislation designed to simplify the process for veterans seeking medical help outside the VA health care system.
More than 600 child care slots coming to these military families
The three new centers in the pilot program will be operated under the same Defense Department standards and use the same parent fee structure.
Congressional appropriators criticize VA’s unapproved funding moves
Department leaders shifted about $340 million in budget savings to outside health care accounts without lawmakers' OK.
Federal budget plans still in limbo as Memorial Day approaches
Defense and veterans hearings on Capitol Hill for the week of May 19, 2025.
Vets disability claims backlog down to 200K cases, a post-pandemic low
The number of overdue disability claims rose to more than 400,000 cases after COVID-19 office closures and toxic exposure benefits expansion.
Trump’s vow of ‘substantial’ pay raise for troops counters budget plan
The White House spending plans call for a 3.8% pay boost next year, a smaller raise than troops saw in January.
Dems demand military investigation into Qatar’s plane gift to Trump
Lawmakers worry the expensive gift could create financial and legal issues for the Defense Department.
