National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026

On December 18, 2025, President Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, which authorizes funding for the Department of War, the Department of Energy’s security programs, and other essential government departments. The Act aims to strengthen the national security of the United States and to implement the administration’s agenda of ‘Peace Through Strength.’ It includes provisions designed to enhance homeland security, facilitate defense operations, and address issues related to national defense airspace and illegal immigration, while also codifying several executive actions taken by the President.

The President supports many components of the Act but has raised concerns about certain provisions that he believes may infringe upon his constitutional authority. Specifically, he has noted that some sections appear to dictate U.S. positions in military and foreign affairs or require him to submit sensitive national security information to Congress. The administration intends to interpret these provisions in a way that maintains the President’s authority as Commander in Chief and protects national security interests.

The Act also includes the SAFER SKIES Act, which empowers local law enforcement to address threats posed by unmanned aircraft and tackles border security issues. The President emphasized that the administration would implement all relevant sections of the Act in accordance with his constitutional responsibilities while ensuring effective management of executive branch functions. Through this legislation, the administration seeks to enhance national defense capabilities while addressing concerns regarding transparency and authority in foreign and military affairs.

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