A solitary Republican Senator’s attempt to reverse a Pentagon policy granting abortion access to service members is causing a delay in the smooth transition of power within the top echelons of the armed forces, including the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Since February, Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama has been blocking numerous promotions for high-ranking generals and admirals, insisting that the Defense Department rescind a policy offering leave and travel reimbursement for service members seeking abortions out of state. This dispute over social policy has resulted in more than half of the current Joint Chiefs expected to retire without Senate-approved successors, leaving the military at a vulnerable state during a time of heightened tensions with China and Russia.
The Biden administration and Senate Democrats have strongly criticized Tuberville’s actions, labeling them as dangerous and misplaced. While some Republicans are uncomfortable with his tactics, GOP leaders have been more restrained in their criticism. This has not deterred Tuberville or his supporters within the Republican party, who have defended his objections and standing up against a policy that has angered anti-abortion Republicans.
This impasse is beginning to have a tangible impact on the military. The first departing Joint Chief, Gen. David Berger, will retire today, leaving his deputy, Gen. Eric Smith, to assume the role without Congress’ approval. Over the next couple of months, the chiefs of staff for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as Gen. Mark Milley, the chair of the Joint Chiefs, are also expected to step down, leaving the organization with an unusually high number of temporary leaders.
Tuberville’s actions are causing a ripple effect throughout the military, leading to concerns about military readiness and national security. Despite these concerns, Tuberville remains firm in his beliefs and argues that his objections will not harm the military. He suggests that the Senate can schedule individual votes on each promotion, rather than relying on unanimous consent. However, this process could be time-consuming and potentially tie up the Senate.
Senate leaders and Democrats have repeatedly urged Tuberville to release his hold on military promotions, but these efforts have been unsuccessful. Tuberville dismisses his critics and suggests alternative solutions, such as passing legislation to reverse or establish the Pentagon’s abortion access policy. However, Senate leaders find these solutions unworkable and fear that making exceptions for the Joint Chiefs will validate Tuberville’s protest and encourage others to take similar actions.
While Senate leaders hope to change Tuberville’s stance in the coming weeks, challenges to the Pentagon’s abortion access policy are expected during the House debate on the defense authorization bill. House Republicans have proposed two measures to restrict the use of federal funds for abortion-related expenses, while House Democrats have countered with a proposal to solidify the Pentagon’s reimbursement policy. The outcome in the House could potentially increase pressure on Tuberville to abandon his protest.
Overall, the delay in military promotions caused by Tuberville’s actions is causing disruptions and concerns about national security. Despite criticism and attempts to find a resolution, Tuberville remains steadfast in his position, leading to uncertainty within the armed forces.
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