Pentagon Spends Record $93.4 Billion in September Budget Surge

The United States Department of Defense spent a record $93.4 billion on grants and contracts in September 2025, the highest single-month spending for a federal agency since at least 2008. According to the watchdog group Open The Books, the agency utilized "use-it-or-lose-it" funding to avoid future budget reductions, spending $50.1 billion within the final five working days of the fiscal year.

Detailed expenditures include $225.6 million on furniture, $5.3 million on Apple devices, and over $24 million on luxury foods, including $15.1 million for ribeye steak and $6.9 million for lobster tails. The report also identified $1.8 million spent on musical instruments, including a $98,329 Steinway & Sons grand piano for the Air Force chief of staff's residence. Additionally, the agency spent $6.6 billion on foreign governments and businesses.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth faces criticism for these expenditures, which contrast with his February 2025 pledges to eliminate hundreds of billions in wasteful spending. Pentagon Comptroller David Norquist defended the seafood costs as part of normal operations for service member meals throughout the year.

Political reactions have been sharp. Governor Gavin Newsom and Senator Chuck Schumer criticized the spending, while Representative Melanie Stansbury announced intentions to investigate. Other critics, including SPARTA Pride, argued the spending is hypocritical as the administration claims transgender healthcare is an undue financial burden. These revelations emerge as President Donald Trump requests a $1.5 trillion budget for 2027 to build a "Dream Military."