So the dreaded sequester cuts 85.4 billion from the budget including 42.7 billion from defense. Today congress passes a large spending bill that retains the sequester but gives the pentagon an extra 87 billion, sweet! I knew they would find a way to get around any cuts to the sacred cow the defense industry is, just thought it might take a little longer.

"It retains $85bn (£56bn) in spending cuts this year that took effect on 1 March, but gives cabinet agencies new flexibility in implementing them.

The bill also keeps in place a pay freeze for federal employees.

Approved by the Senate on Wednesday, the legislation provides an extra $87bn to the Pentagon to pay for overseas operations in Afghanistan and Iraq."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-21883149