Last night, Congressman John Moolenaar voted in favor of H.R. 4016, The Defense Appropriations Act, 2026. This legislation includes provisions aimed at advancing American interests and strengthening national security. It also focuses on military readiness by funding exercises like Northern Strike in Michigan and provides a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers.
Moolenaar stated, “The Defense Appropriations Act passed today restores peace through strength, gives a well-deserved pay raise to our troops, and supports Northern Strike right here in Michigan.” He emphasized that the act ensures the U.S. military remains highly capable by funding next-generation aircraft, missile defense, and space capabilities to deter adversaries such as the Chinese Communist Party. According to Moolenaar, this legislation prioritizes service members and their families with equipment upgrades and enhanced services.
Exercise Northern Strike is hosted semi-annually by the Michigan National Guard. The new appropriations act allocates increased funding for personnel and operations to maintain it as a premier joint readiness exercise for American military personnel and allies.
The House of Representatives passed the legislation with a vote of 221 to 209.
