After facing criticism for blocking the confirmations of about 250 Pentagon officials over a United States military abortion policy, Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) doubled down on his stance.
Following Sen. Ben Cardin’s (D-MD) request to advance a Naval Academy official’s nomination, Tuberville denied his hold was a national security risk and vowed to continue fighting against the Defense Department’s abortion funding on Thursday.
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“These military positions are being fulfilled by acting officials. These jobs are being done as we speak. They're not empty,” Tuberville said on the Senate floor. “It is not affecting our readiness.”
Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) denies that his blocking of hundreds of military promotions is a national security risk:
— The Recount (@therecount) June 15, 2023
“These military positions are being fulfilled by acting officials … It is not affecting our readiness.” pic.twitter.com/SCebvvp1Um
The Pentagon policy in question, which was enacted last year, provides paid leave and reimbursement for service members who travel to get an abortion, according to the Hill. Tuberville started protesting against the policy in March, primarily due to its use of federal taxpayer funds for abortion services.
Responding to Cardin’s comments, the Republican senator called the complaints from Democrats “disinformation.
“I’m not blocking anyone from getting confirmed. I’m not blocking a single vote. I’m only blocking unanimous consent,” Tuberville said.
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Until he relents and unanimous consent comes through, the Senate’s confirmation process for new Pentagon officials will remain at a stalemate.
Tuberville is reportedly working with senior Republicans to lay out a compromise, according to a previous report from the Washington Examiner.