Topic: Military Authorization

The 2023 National Defense Authorization Act includes the 1202 authority, a provision allowing the U.S. military to secretly recruit and pay foreign forces for irregular warfare. This legislative update suggests a shift toward covert operations in regions like Afghanistan. Speculation exists that high-profile strikes are used to justify these expanded military and CIA budgets.

The hosts select their "ISO" (isolated audio) clips for the week, choosing between various NPR and news snippets. A final warning is given regarding the National Defense Authorization Act and its nearly $1 trillion in military spending. The show concludes with a custom music mix featuring clips of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.

The hosts discuss why COVID-19 vaccinations remain voluntary for the U.S. military due to their Emergency Use Authorization status. However, they note that under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), service members are considered government property, allowing for potential future mandates or testing.

Defense Secretary Ash Carter stated at the Pentagon that the U.S. is prepared to do more to accelerate the defeat of ISIS in Iraq, anticipating the need for "additional authorities." This is interpreted as a push for a new Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) to replace the 2001 version. Carter indicated that President Obama is ready to approve expanded capabilities as commanders identify opportunities.

The discussion shifts to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), specifically House Version 1540 and Senate Version 1867. Analysis of the $660 billion budget reveals that approximately $80 billion is allocated to military bases in Germany, despite that country's dominant economic position in the EU. Additionally, significant funding is directed toward naval operations and submarine bases in Washington State.