WASHINGTON — The US Senate on Tuesday failed to advance the $1.15 trillion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) after a procedural vote fell short of the required threshold, delaying consideration of the annual defense policy and spending legislation.
The measure received 50 votes in favor and 46 against, failing to secure the 60 votes needed to move forward in the Senate.
Although the vote largely followed party lines, Senate Majority Leader John Thune changed his vote from “yes” to “no” before the final tally. The procedural move allows him to file a motion for reconsideration, keeping the legislation eligible for another vote at a later stage.
Four senators — John Fetterman, Jim Justice, Mitch McConnell, and Alex Padilla — were absent during the vote.
The legislation had previously cleared the Senate Armed Services Committee in June with bipartisan support, passing by an 18-9 vote. However, negotiations have since stalled as Republicans and Democrats remain divided over broader federal spending levels, including disagreements surrounding defense and domestic budget allocations.
Democratic lawmakers also cited the recent US military operation against Iran as a major concern. They criticized President Donald Trump for authorizing the campaign without first seeking congressional approval, arguing that the issue raised significant constitutional and oversight questions during debate over the defense bill.
The failed procedural vote leaves the future of the NDAA uncertain, with Senate leaders expected to continue negotiations in an effort to break the legislative deadlock.
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