US defense spending would rise $445bn under Trump budget plan, with steep cuts elsewhere

The Guardian US News
by Chris Stein in Washington
April 3, 2026
3 min read

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The Bottom Line

Trump's budget proposal increases defense spending by $445 billion while cutting other federal programs by 10 percent.

AI Summary

The Trump administration proposed a budget plan Friday that would increase defense spending by $445 billion while cutting other federal programs by 10 percent. The proposal represents a significant reallocation of government resources, prioritizing military spending at levels not seen in decades. Democrats have criticized the plan as "bleak and unacceptable," arguing it reflects troubling priorities that slash funding for non-defense programs. The budget proposal now faces Congressional approval, where Democrats and some Republicans may challenge the depth of cuts to domestic agencies. The plan underscores the administration's stated focus on defense capabilities and military readiness as a core fiscal priority.

What's Being Done

The budget proposal now faces Congressional approval, where Democrats and some Republicans may challenge the depth of cuts to domestic agencies.

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