Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal voted in favor of the nomination of General Lloyd Austin to the role of Secretary of Defense today/Thursday. Blumenthal initially voted against exempting Austin from a required 7 year cooling off period for recently retired military officials seeking the position. Blumenthal said he believes there should be civilian control of the military and voted against a similar waiver in 2017. However, he said after much consideration, he is pleased to vote in favor of Austin’s confirmation. The nomination could be considered by the full Senate as early as today.
