Congress Turns Down Sanders’ Defense Deal Proposal
Critics of the deal, including Sanders, maintained that additional scrutiny would ensure the agreement aligns with U.S. laws, standards, and broader foreign policy goals. They argued that Congress has a responsibility to evaluate the financial and strategic implications of major arms exports to ensure responsible use of resources.
Although the proposal failed, the debate prompted a wider discussion on how international defense agreements are evaluated, approved, and communicated to the public. Lawmakers from both parties emphasized the ongoing importance of transparency and accountability in decisions involving national security. The vote ultimately reflected the Senate’s preference to maintain established defense commitments while acknowledging the need for continued dialogue about the scope and long-term impact of U.S. foreign policy.