The Trump administration is expected to increase military spending in the upcoming 2020 fiscal budget. The is rumored to include the use temporary war funding accounts (designated for use under Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO)*) to support the effort. Using this measure would allow the administration to work around federal government funding caps.
The move has garnered a lot of controversy. Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought defended the choice in a op-ed for Real Clear Politics. Vought believes this move works to provide greater access to defense funds, as utilizing OCO funds would allow the administration to concentrate more funding to defense without impeding on the ongoing debate of where discretionary spending should be allocated . He states that Democrats have “held defense spending hostage” in order to receive greater funding for domestic spending. However, others have adamantly opposed the proposed move, notably House Armed Services Committee Chairman Adam Smith. Smith released a statement calling the move a “mockery” of the federal budgeting system.
Overall, the response to this action has sparked a conversation on the role of defense spending in the grand scheme of U.S. interests and spending. It also solidifies the notion that Congress is not an insignificant player in the world of defense spending. It is easy to see that there are many areas in which the federal budget is put to waste. Defense spending should be among the top priorities for the United States’ budget; however, it is important to evaluate the allocation of defense funds. Could the government build up the military in a more efficient and fiscally responsible way? The answer is probably yes. First in consideration should be evaluating financial efficacy as it currently stands. We should look to see where potential adjustments could be made. ( Acknowledging that task is in and of itself difficult and is easier said than done, especially given the current uncertainty of within the department following the exit of Secretary Mattis.)
*OCO funds are supplemental to the defense budget. They are not a part of the Defense base budget. They work to cover the costs of Overseas Contingency Operations (for example, Munitions, fuel, and life support cost attributed to overseas contingency operations).
https://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2019/02/25/congress_must_join_the_president_in_cutting_spending_139568.html
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2019/02/25/white-house-plans-to-use-temporary-war-funds-to-shift-billions-into-the-militarys-budget/
By: Maeve R.