Republican leaders pulled votes on the defense spending bill after failing to secure Freedom Caucus support, teeing up a possible shutdown next month. Lawmakers are warning that a political budget fight could have severe financial consequences for troops and their dependents. Lawmakers are optimistic they can finish the bill this year despite major differences in the House and Senate drafts. House Republicans voted to add several conservative Freedom Caucus amendments on abortion and transgender troops to the previously bipartisan defense bill. Military relations with Mexico currently fall under the purview of U.S. Northern Command. One misstep by an less experienced leader can have cascading effects on the entire operation, Marine Gen. Eric Smith said. Sen. Tommy Tuberville's blanket hold on military confirmations could create as many as five joint chiefs vacancies. Here's what happens next. President Joe Biden nominated Gen. Eric Smith Tuesday to serve as the next commandant of the Marine Corps. Republicans lay the groundwork to boost the president's defense budget request, even as they vow to slash overall spending. In an exclusive interview with Defense News, Ken Calvert previews areas where House Republicans believe they can trim defense spending. Load More