The Biden administration is close to requesting the largest defense budget in US history, according to the chief financial officer of the Department of Defense.
The budget request for 2024 is expected to be released on March 9 and the defense budget is expected to be higher than what was authorized by Congress in December, which was $858 billion, higher than what President Biden had requested.
The Pentagon has sought to increase funding to maintain its technological advantage over China and counter the rising influence of Russia.
The budget proposal now faces skepticism from House Republicans, who are seeking to cut spending as part of their plans to raise the debt limit. Republicans have proposed reducing spending on student debt relief and Environmental Protection Agency programs.
The Pentagon has warned that if significant spending cuts are made, it will result in fewer people, ships, airplanes, and smaller pay raises.
