To: Congress (House and Senate Armed Services Committees)
Audit the pentagon
This country cannot afford—literally and figuratively—to increase Pentagon spending in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act. Not another taxpayer dollar should go toward a system that continues to fail basic accountability standards while exposing communities and service members to unnecessary danger.
Year after year, the Department of Defense fails to pass a full audit, and yet the department continues to secure more funding than the previous year. At a time of heightened global tension, caused by both Hegseth and Trump’s aggression and hostility, we should be creating a world that makes us all more safe and secure, not doubling down on violence and authoritarianism.
This NDAA is a war funding bill. No more, no less. WE must reject any budget increases for defense spending in this war, and support meaningful reductions that prioritize accountability, safety, and a more effective definition of national security.
Why is this important?
The Pentagon budget now exceeds $800 billion annually, yet persistent issues raise questions about whether this spending actually improves safety for service members or citizens. High-profile cost overruns (such as the F-35 program), repeated audit failures for decades, and documented environmental harms like PFAS contamination near military bases show systemic inefficiencies and risks to our communities.
At the same time, Trump and Hegseth’s predisposition toward violence and aggression has led to an outright war in Iran, and increased conflict in the Middle East. These recent escalations highlight how militarism unchecked can endanger both civilians and service members. We need to prioritize investments in diplomacy and community resilience that will make all of our communities safer. Sign the petition if you agree!