Shelby Review

John James, the House Representative from Michigan, announced that the recently passed Defense Appropriations Act brings essential funding and benefits to troops and his state. This includes new aircraft and a 3.8 percent pay raise for service members. The statement was made on X.

"The Defense Appropriations passed by the House this week is a massive win for our troops, our state, and our country," said James. "It included five of my amendments, as well as funding to procure three additional F-15EX's at Selfridge ANGB. I'm also especially excited about the 3.8 percent pay raise for all service members included in the bill."

The 2026 Defense Appropriations Act is advancing through Congress with bipartisan support, allocating over $880 billion for military spending. According to Defense News, the act emphasizes modernization, personnel pay raises, and strategic investments in response to global security threats. The provisions include significant funding for new aircraft, support for military families, and a renewed focus on defense manufacturing. These discussions occur amid election-year politics and concerns about the U.S.'s stance against Russia and China.

According to a summary from the House Appropriations Committee, the 2026 Defense Appropriations Act provides $880.2 billion in total funding. Major allocations include personnel pay increases, $18 billion for Air Force aircraft procurement, $3.6 billion for cyber defense, and $32 billion for military health programs.

A 2024 Congressional Research Service report notes that the 2026 Act includes a 5.2% pay raise for service members—the largest in two decades—and funds procurement of up to 12 new F-15EX aircraft. Selfridge Air National Guard Base (ANGB) in Michigan is slated to receive its first deliveries as part of a broader Air Force recapitalization.

According to Ballotpedia, James is a Republican U.S. Representative from Michigan’s 10th District. He is a West Point graduate and former Army helicopter pilot elected in 2022 who focuses on national security, veterans’ affairs, and boosting Michigan’s defense industry and infrastructure in Congress.