WASHINGTON — President Trump on Wednesday formally vetoed a sweeping military policy bill, setting up what could be the first veto override of his presidency after both chambers overwhelmingly approved the legislation.
In refusing to sign the legislation, Mr. Trump cited a series of provisions he has long rejected, including one that would strip the names of Confederate leaders from military bases. He also has demanded that the bill include a provision that would repeal a legal shield for social media companies that he has tangled with, something that Republicans and Democrats alike have said is irrelevant to a bill that dictates military policy and has become law for the past 60 years.
“My administration has taken strong actions to help keep our nation safe and support our service members,” Mr. Trump wrote in the veto notification. “I will not approve this bill, which would put the interests of the Washington, D.C., establishment over those of the American people.”
The House is expected to return on Monday to vote on an override. Should it pass, the Senate is expected to return on Tuesday to begin considering the override.
