Defense Secretary Seeks $90 Billion Funding Increase Amid Iran Conflict

Why it matters locally: An increase in federal defense spending could have ripple effects throughout California's substantial defense and aerospace industries, potentially impacting contracts, employment, and research initiatives.

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WASHINGTON D.C. – Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is scheduled to testify before Congress on Tuesday. Hegseth will present a request for a nearly $90 billion increase in funding for defense operations. The request for additional funds comes as the conflict in Iran has intensified. Hegseth will outline the justifications for this financial requirement to congressional members.