Trump seeks $1.5T for defense, 10% cut to domestic programs

Defense spending surge amid Iran conflict

As the US grapples with escalating expenses from the ongoing Iran conflict, Washington is also looking to replenish its weapon reserves. President Donald Trump unveiled a 2027 budget plan that would allocate $1.5 trillion to the defense sector, marking a 40% jump in military funding—a significant leap since World War II. This proposal, introduced five weeks after the start of the US-Israel war with Iran, aims to strengthen the nation’s strategic capabilities.

To balance the proposal, Trump suggested a 10% reduction in non-defense expenditures, targeting programs deemed “woke, weaponized, and wasteful.” The 92-page document outlined efforts to return state and local duties to their respective governments, while eliminating initiatives viewed as unnecessary. Although the budget is nonbinding, it reflects the administration’s focus on prioritizing national security over other sectors.

“An out-of-touch plea for more money for guns and bombs, and less for the things people need, like housing, health care, education, roads, scientific research, and environmental protection.” — Senator Jeff Merkley, top Democrat on the Budget Committee

Specific allocations and cuts

The defense budget would fund Trump’s controversial Golden Dome missile shield, expand critical mineral reserves for military use, and provide $65.8 billion for constructing 34 new warships. Additionally, the proposal includes a 13% boost to Justice Department operations to enhance its ability to combat violent crime. Homeland security and immigration enforcement spending would remain at $2.2 billion, covering ICE operations, 41,500 detention beds, and 30,000 family unit beds.

Non-defense cuts extend to several agencies, such as a 19% reduction for the Agriculture Department and a 12.5% decrease for the Health Department. The Environmental Protection Agency faces a 52% funding drop, with Trump’s team arguing it undermines “woke” environmental initiatives. The budget also slashes $106 million from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, citing its promotion of “radical gender ideology” among children. NASA’s science division would lose $3.6 billion under a 23% funding cut.

“Sending a clear signal for our allies and partners to build on recent progress and meet this benchmark alongside us.” — Senators Roger Wicker and Mike Rogers, heads of Senate and House armed services committees

Political reactions

Democrats criticized the plan as favoring military priorities over domestic needs. Senator Merkley called it a “call for more money for guns and bombs,” while Republicans supported the defense increase, emphasizing its role in aligning US spending with 5% of GDP. The proposal now awaits congressional approval, with lawmakers tasked to finalize the federal budget. Video content embedded in the document highlights key aspects of the plan, requiring JavaScript-enabled browsers for full viewing.