Senate Passes $901 Billion National Defense Authorization Act Amid Controversial Provisions
On December 17, 2025, the Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) worth approximately $901 billion, sending the bill to President Donald Trump for his signature. The measure passed with a bipartisan vote of 77 to 20.
Key provisions in the NDAA include guaranteed assistance to Ukraine and the repeal of the 1991 Gulf War and 2002 Iraq War Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs). The bill also contains a controversial provision that would roll back safety standards in Washington, D.C. airspace following a fatal collision near Reagan National Airport. Senator Ted Cruz sought to add the ROTOR Act, which would require air-traffic awareness technology.
Another notable provision mandates the Pentagon to release unedited footage of the September 2 Caribbean boat strikes. This release is tied to full funding of the Department of War’s travel fund.
Senators received briefings from Pete Hegseth and Marco Rubio as part of the NDAA discussions. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the administration for not providing unedited footage of the boat strikes to all lawmakers.
This NDAA legislation arrives as Congress is working on a five-bill spending package to meet the January 30 government funding deadline, with additional year-end legislative priorities still pending.
