'Opposed During Trump Era' US Democrats Face Dilemma Over Defense Nominee Approval

Austin Nominee Fails to Meet 7-Year Post-Service Requirement
Many Democratic Lawmakers Express Opposition
Austin Supports Civilian Military Control
Biden Emphasizes Congressional Support

President-elect Joe Biden is listening to the remarks of Lloyd Austin, the nominee for Secretary of Defense.
[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] Lloyd Austin, the nominee for U.S. Secretary of Defense, stated that the United States is strongest when allied and cooperative, expressing his willingness to help restore U.S. foreign policy. However, the special congressional approval required for his appointment, which has become an obstacle, is becoming increasingly complicated. The historic first Black Secretary of Defense is facing criticism for not even meeting the basic conditions for taking office.

Lloyd Austin appeared on the 9th (local time) in Wilmington, Delaware, introduced by President-elect Joe Biden.

He said, "I firmly believe that the United States is strongest when allied and cooperative," and emphasized, "I understand the important role of the Department of Defense. That role is to maintain stability and deter attacks. It also includes supporting key alliances worldwide, including in the Asia-Pacific and Europe."

He added, "I have long worked hand in hand with our diplomatic colleagues and partners around the world, witnessing firsthand what we can achieve together. I look forward to resuming this important work if I am confirmed by the Senate."

Although he expressed his stance on the future operation of the Department of Defense, attention is focused on his qualifications, which do not meet the required standards.

The United States has a principle that the Department of Defense must be under civilian control, stipulating that military personnel must wait seven years after discharge before serving as Secretary of Defense.

Austin has only been retired for four years, falling short of the requirement to become Secretary of Defense regardless of the confirmation hearing outcome. Only two secretaries have received waivers for this rule: George Marshall in 1950 and James Mattis in 2017.

Especially, Democratic lawmakers who opposed the approval of former Secretary Mattis, nominated by President Donald Trump, may face criticism if they apply a different standard to their own party’s nominee.

According to Axios, Senators Elizabeth Warren, Jon Tester, and Richard Blumenthal have expressed opposition to the approval. Senator Tammy Duckworth, a veteran, also stated in an interview that she "will not approve" him.

Recognizing this situation, nominee Austin said, "When I retired four years ago, I hung up my uniform and returned from General Austin to civilian Austin. That is an important difference," adding, "I understand that being a member of the cabinet requires a different perspective and responsibility than being a soldier."

President-elect Biden also said, "Both I and nominee Austin believe in the importance of civilian control over the military," continuing with remarks mindful of the cold reception from Congress, "There is no doubt that he is the right person for this mission at the appropriate time."

He further emphasized the historic significance of the birth of the first Black Secretary of Defense, stating that if history had not demanded it, or if he did not have faith in Austin, he would not have requested an exception to nominate him.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.