Procurement: July 20, 2001

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When Republicans regained control of the presidency in the United States, and retained control of the House of Representatives, the armed forces felt that they would now be able to get more money for programs they considered under funded. But because of the way the defense budget works, this may not be the case. When Democrat president Clinton was in charge, he drew up the defense budget. But the House of Representatives had to pass such bills. Moreover, the president's proposals could be "supplemented" by the House to provide additional funds. This was often done, providing additional funds for the military. But it is dawning on the brass that a Republican House of Representatives is less likely to disagree with a Republican president, especially one who has a vice president with extensive experience in dealing with the House of Representatives.