Trump Proposes 10% Cut to Discretionary Spending, Boost to Defense

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President Donald Trump has proposed a 10% cut in non-defense discretionary spending for the 2027 fiscal year, while also requesting a $500 billion increase in defense spending. The White House budget document cites plans to reduce or eliminate 'woke, weaponized, and wasteful programs' and return more responsibilities to state and local governments.

Why it matters

The president's budget proposal reflects the administration's political priorities ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, where Republicans hope to maintain their slim majorities in Congress. The proposed cuts and increases in spending signal the administration's continued focus on reducing 'green energy' programs and increasing funding for the Justice Department to prosecute 'violent criminals'.

The details

The budget plan calls for a 13% increase in Justice Department funding to 'maximize' its capacity to prosecute violent crimes, while also eliminating nearly 30 DOJ programs deemed 'duplicative' or 'weaponized' against the American people. The proposed cuts follow the Trump administration's longstanding opposition to 'green energy' spending.

• The president submitted the fiscal year 2027 budget proposal on April 3, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The proposed budget changes must now be approved by the U.S. Congress, which requires bipartisan support. Lawmakers often treat the president's spending requests as suggestions rather than binding proposals.