CHARLESTON, W.Va. — U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., is criticizing the Trump administration for its decision to divert $3.8 billion in Defense Department funding to constructing a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border.

The funding comes from money first allocated for buying equipment and machinery for the National Guard.

Manchin, who has voted more in line with Trump’s positions than any other active Senate Democrat, said funding the border wall cannot come at the expense of state units.

“These funds were intended to upgrade outdated aircraft and maintain readiness by improving equipment and weapons systems, which could affect West Virginia’s National Guard and Reserve units’ preparedness as well as manufacturing jobs in our state,” he said Friday.

Manchin added the decision is a violation of Congress’ power to appropriate funding.