WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) released the following statement after voting NO on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026.
The FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) authorizes $900 billion for the Department of Defense, National Nuclear Security Agency and other related national security agencies-this is $8 billion more than was even requested.
“At a time when President Trump is scrutinizing every federal dollar for critical domestic programs, we continue to increase the defense budget without proper oversight or reform. There is no check on the ballooning military budget. The Department of Defense has failed seven consecutive annual audits. No other agencies would be able to fail audits and simultaneously receive more funding year after year.
This, in addition to President Donald Trump and Secretary Pete Hegseth continuing to use our military without regard for the rule of law. Congress must take back our Article I powers and end these unlawful actions.
I acknowledge the wins that were achieved in this legislation, but there comes a point where we have to demand reform of our defense appropriations.
I have and will always continue to support our military, their families and our country but accepting the terms of this legislation is not how that is achieved.”