The Sconi

Derrick Van Orden, the representative for Wisconsin's District 3, expressed concerns that efforts by House Democrats to cut defense spending could undermine U.S. national security at a critical time.

"HASC democrats are actively working to defund the Department of Defense," said Van Orden, U.S. Representative from Wisconsin. "We are facing growing threats from adversaries around the world. This is the time to invest — not divest and throw our national security, servicemembers, and the American people under the bus for the purpose of political grandstanding."

In April 2025, the House Armed Services Committee approved a $150 billion increase to the Department of Defense budget, intensifying partisan debate over military funding. According to Breaking Defense, the committee passed the measure in a 35–21 vote, with Republicans and several Democrats supporting the increase. Efforts to limit Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s authority were voted down. This move signals congressional intent to modernize U.S. forces amid growing global threats.

The Department of Defense's proposed Fiscal Year 2025 budget totals $893 billion, matching last year’s allocation and reflecting a focus on maintaining current defense operations. According to Reuters and the Department of Defense, the budget includes $28.4 billion for missile defense and increased investments in personnel and research and development (R&D). The administration’s flat request reflects an effort to balance readiness with fiscal restraint.

Global defense spending reached a record $2.46 trillion in 2024, with the United States accounting for $997 billion—or 37%—of the total. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies, this historic rise reflects global military modernization in response to geopolitical instability. The surge underscores the strategic pressure on nations to maintain or expand defense investments amid complex security threats.

Van Orden was elected to the U.S. House in 2022 and is a retired Navy SEAL. According to Congress.gov and his official House website, he serves on the House Armed Services Committee as well as the Veterans’ Affairs and Agriculture Committees. His military background informs his legislative focus on national defense and veterans’ care.