The Warren Sun

This week, the House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2026, with support from Representative John James of Michigan's 10th District. The legislation includes provisions aimed at supporting service members and their families, strengthening the defense industrial base, and preparing the military for future challenges.

Representative James released a statement following the bill’s passage:

“I am beyond proud to have voted in support of our military and the men in women in uniform who serve our nation. This NDAA delivers on President Trump’s commitment to securing our border, bolstering our military’s strength, and putting our warfighters first. This is a monumental win for our armed forces, and I was thrilled to support this effort.”

The NDAA contains several measures focused on improving quality of life for service members, such as supporting a 3.8% pay raise and expanding bonuses and special pay. It also addresses border security by funding National Guard deployments and enforcement activities along the southwest border, as well as authorizing over $900 million to combat drug trafficking.

In terms of procurement reforms, the bill aims to speed up defense acquisition processes and reduce regulatory burdens to attract new innovators. Cost-saving measures are included as well, with over $20 billion in reductions from Pentagon bureaucracy, contracts deemed wasteful, diversity initiatives, and climate change-related spending.

The legislation also fully funds various defense programs including fighter jets, submarines, warships, autonomous systems, and missile defense initiatives. It prohibits retirement of certain aircraft such as F-22s, A-10s, and C-130s.

John James has represented Michigan's 10th District in Congress since 2023. He was born in Detroit in 1981 and currently resides in Farmington Hills.