Who is responsible for appropriating money for national defense?

The responsibility for appropriating money for national defense lies with Congress because it holds the power of the purse as outlined in the U.S. Constitution. This ensures that the funding for military operations and defense initiatives is carefully considered and approved by the elected representatives of the people. Congress is tasked with creating and approving the federal budget, which includes allocations for defense spending, allowing for oversight and decision-making on how taxpayer money is utilized in national defense.

The involvement of other entities, such as the President and the Secretary of Defense, is primarily in providing recommendations and proposing budgets. The President, as the Commander-in-Chief, may outline Defense priorities and request funds for military needs, while the Secretary of Defense manages those funds and oversees their use. However, it is Congress that ultimately appropriates the funds, reflecting its crucial role in ensuring accountability in federal spending related to national security.