"Senate Overcomes Objection to Defense Bill, Clearing Path for Passage"

The Senate has cleared the first procedural hurdle to passing the annual Defense policy bill, despite an objection from Senator Josh Hawley. The bill, which does not include a GOP-backed item blocking the Pentagon's abortion policy, is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks. Hawley's objection will complicate the timing of final passage, but Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Jack Reed still expects to wrap up the bill next week. The House is expected to pass the bill by suspending the rules of the chamber.