Shaheen Statement on Lloyd Austin Nomination to Serve as Secretary of Defense

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement in response to President-elect Joe Biden’s nomination of General Lloyd Austin to serve as the next Secretary of Defense.

“Lloyd Austin's nomination is historic and something that all Americans can appreciate,” said Shaheen. “General Austin is exceptionally qualified, which is evident in his four decades in the United States Army and particularly during his leadership as the head of U.S. Central Command. I look forward to hearing about his priorities as Secretary in our meeting next week. I’m particularly interested in discussing New Hampshire’s important role in support of our national defense and to hear how he would work to integrate women throughout our national security structures and policies. As our nation faces increasing threats to our national defense and security from adversaries, ensuring the best person for this role is of critical importance. As this process moves forward, I will continue to review all pertinent information related to General Austin’s record and nomination.”