Congress Approves Defense Bill with Troop Pay Raise and Ukraine Funding

The House has passed the annual defense policy bill, known as the National Defense Authorization Act, which includes a 5.2% pay raise for troops, funding for Ukraine, and an extension of a controversial foreign surveillance program. The bill faced opposition from House conservatives due to the extension of Section 702 and the omission of culture war amendments. The House version, filled with controversial amendments, was rejected by the Senate, leading to a compromise version. The bill now awaits President Joe Biden's approval.