Delays in the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act Amid Intraparty Disputes

The release of the final text for the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) has been delayed, initially expected on Thursday, due to ongoing intraparty disputes among congressional Republicans. Key issues under negotiation include the inclusion of housing legislation, restrictions on U.S. investments in China, and expanded fertility coverage for military families. The delay raises concerns about the bill's passage before the end of the year, which is critical for national defense funding.

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Central to the negotiations is the proposed attachment of the Senate's Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream to Housing Act, known as the ROAD to Housing Act. This administration-backed initiative aims to address housing costs, a priority emphasized by President Donald Trump, who believes it could resonate with voters ahead of the midterm elections. However, opposition has emerged from Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.), chair of the House Financial Services Committee, who stated that his committee has not reviewed any text related to the housing proposal and thus cannot support its inclusion in the NDAA.

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In addition to housing, GOP leaders are deliberating on potential restrictions regarding U.S. investments in China, which carry significant national security implications. Another contentious point is the proposal to expand fertility benefits under the Pentagon's TRICARE health system, including in vitro fertilization (IVF) for military families. While this provision has support from some lawmakers, concerns about its alignment with pro-life principles have led to hesitance among certain Republicans.

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House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has expressed conditional support for the IVF expansion, stating he is in favor of access "when sufficient pro-life protections are in place." Meanwhile, the GOP leadership is under pressure from the White House to finalize the bill, with discussions ongoing about how to incorporate various provisions without jeopardizing bipartisan support.

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Critics within the Republican Party have voiced concerns about the inclusion of unrelated issues that could derail the NDAA. Some lawmakers have cautioned against attaching contentious provisions that lack broad support, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the bill's focus on defense matters. The failure to include a proposed moratorium on state-level artificial intelligence regulations, which was backed by House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.), illustrates the challenges of balancing diverse legislative agendas within the NDAA.

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The final text of the NDAA is now expected by the end of the weekend, as GOP leaders continue to navigate these complex negotiations. The outcome will significantly impact the ability of Republican leaders to secure the necessary votes for passage, particularly given the narrow majority in the House. The NDAA has historically enjoyed bipartisan support, but the current disputes could complicate its approval process.

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• “Given our Conference has not seen any text, it’s unclear how we could support its inclusion in the NDAA,” — Rep. French Hill, Chair of the House Financial Services Committee

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• “A spokesperson for SpeakerMike Johnsonsaid in a statement that he “has clearly and repeatedly stated he is supportive of access to IVF when sufficient pro-life protections are in place, and he will continue to be supportive when it is done responsibly and ethically.” — Spokesperson for House Speaker Mike Johnson

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