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Opinion / Budget

Trump Proffers Pentagon Specifics: $60B More To Boost Troops, Ships

Nuclear modernization is going to be a costly endeavor, but how much will it truly cost. The modernization debate throws out varying numbers without addressing what the numbers mean. Rather than argue over numbers this article asserts that the debate should revolve around the role of nuclear weapons in U.S. defense strategy and if the cost is worth the investment.

Donald Trump
Opinion / Budget

Lunacy, Bluster & Unanswered Questions

Even though there is almost no data to crunch from the Trump campaign, it’s time to examine what a Trump defense program might look like because he appears to be the presumptive Republican nominee. As one might expect, Trump has broken all the policy conventions in describing a defense program in the same way he has broken all the political rules to achieve his primary victories so far. He is causing huge discomfort in the Republican national security community.

Sen.Bernie-Sanders
Opinion / Budget

Feel The Bern!

Here’s a thought experiment. What if Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders becomes president? What would a Sanders defense program look like? Yes, yes, a near win in Iowa does not a presidential nominee make. Even though he’ll probably win in his neighboring state of New Hampshire, there is a long slog to the convention. Then there is the matter of the general election. But it is worth looking at what he might mean for defense.

carly_fiorina
Opinion / Budget

Fiorina’s Plans Require DoD Spending Boost Of $100B

All the Republicans support increased spending for defense and establishing a more robust defense posture. There’s lots of talk about rebuilding defenses, reversing budget cuts and having “the most powerful military on the planet” — but there are precious few specifics. Former HP CEO Carly Fiorina has been most specific about her proposals and gets a gold star for that.