GOP Divided Over Defense Spending Amid National Security Concerns

Senators McConnell and Wicker push for major increases, facing opposition from fiscal conservatives and Democrats.

Sen. McConnell and Sen. Wicker advocate for a $55 billion increase in defense spending for 2025.
Fiscal conservatives, led by Sen. Rand Paul, argue for strict caps on defense and nondefense spending.
Democrats demand parity increases in nondefense spending alongside any defense budget hike.
Wicker's '21st Century Peace through Strength' plan faces scrutiny for its high costs and strategic assumptions.
The Senate will debate the National Defense Authorization Act next month, highlighting internal GOP conflicts.