Sen. Richard Blumenthal spoke on Saturday regarding the passing of the annual National Defense Authorization Act and the impact it will have on the military.

The United States Senate passed the bill on Wednesday, ascending to the House which passed the bill on Thursday. This comes after months of compromising between Republicans and Democrats.

“I'm really proud that we have increased the pay of our military men and women in the defense budget, 5.2%, well-deserved,” said Blumenthal, “We've ended the partisan, political hold on nominations of our top military leaders by one senator from Alabama over months and now these leaders will receive the promotions and pay they deserve.”

The defense spending bill totals $886 billion, which will include growing military partnerships and global connections.