On the increased US war budget
George W. Bush�s proposed $2.128 Trillion National Budget for 2003 is intended for heightened US imperialist aggression, militarism and war efforts. Bush declared that "US defense is the number one priority" in the budget.
Eighteen percent of the budget or $379 billion shall be earmarked for the increase of US military strength and global deployment. This is $48 billion or 14.5% larger than the current US military budget. This would also surpass the peak of US military spending during Ronald Reagan�s presidency in the early 1980s.
In the proposed military budget, $27.2 billion is allocated for the launching of wars in 2003, including $10 billion for military contingencies. The allocation was based on the more than $1.8 billion monthly spent by the US in its war in Afghanistan.
From 2003 to 2008, a five-year arms development program shall be implemented for which the US will allocate $408 billion. More than $1 billion of this shall be used for the development of Joint Direct Attack Munition and laser-guided bombs and similar high-technology precision weapons.
This all-out military spending would result in a greater US budget deficit next year. Funds for social services like health and education would consequently suffer large cuts spelling greater hardships for the American people.
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