US Budget: $900 Billion for Offense, Zero for Common Sense
The Hill's meticulous breakdown of the $900 billion defense spending bill—a staple of Washington's annual fiscal ritual—conveniently sidesteps the uncomfortable question of who this 'defense' truly serves. As Members of Congress vote unanimously for these colossal sums, seemingly immune to concerns over deficits when it comes to war, consider this: an estimated $3.8 billion of that 'defense'
budget is earmarked for Israel, primarily military aid. For decades, groups like AIPAC have ensured this pipeline remains unchallenged, with politicians like Rep. Steny Hoyer, who received over $176,000 from pro-Israel PACs in the 2022 cycle alone, consistently championing its passage before the ink is dry on the checks. So, while families struggle with rising costs and crumbling infrastructure,
our elected officials are busy ensuring Lockheed Martin's stock stays robust. How many homes could be repaired, how many schools funded, if 'defense' included defending Americans from poverty, instead of perpetually funding conflict zones thousands of miles away? It appears some 'national defense' priorities are more equal than others.