The blockade of Pentagon nominees by Senator Tommy Tuberville has left the Marine Corps without a confirmed leader for the first time in 164 years. Marine Corps Commandant General David Berger retired on Monday, leaving Acting Commandant General Eric Smith to lead the Marines until he is confirmed. The last time the Marines had an acting commandant was in 1859. Tuberville’s hold is affecting key military leaders and nominees, prompting concern from the White House and Pentagon. However, Tuberville argues his block does not affect national security or military readiness. He will only lift the hold if the Pentagon’s abortion policy is formalized in law or dropped.
With Russian leadership rattling the nuclear saber, the PRC eying Taiwan, and the Middle East a mess of low grade conflict, it is astounding that one Senator is allowed to hold the entire military leadership structure hostage.
It is almost as if he and his apologists view uppity women who demand bodily autonomy as the greater threat to the nation.