Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville is currently blocking the swift promotion of Lt. Gen. Ronald Clark to commander of U.S. Army forces in the Pacific. This action stems from concerns that Clark and other senior staff did not promptly inform President Joe Biden when Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was hospitalized earlier this year due to complications from cancer treatment.
Republicans have criticized Clark for his role as one of Austin's top aides during the defense secretary's hospitalization in January. They argue that the failure to notify Biden or other U.S. leaders about Austin's absence from duty could have led to confusion or delays in military decision-making, despite the transfer of decision-making authorities to the deputy defense secretary.
This move by Tuberville comes after he faced backlash last year for holding up numerous military promotions over a Pentagon abortion policy. While his Republican colleagues supported him on the policy issue, they pressured him to release the holds due to concerns about military readiness and the impact on service members and their families.
Tuberville's spokesperson stated that the senator is awaiting a report from the Pentagon's inspector general on the matter before proceeding with Clark's nomination. The spokesperson emphasized that as a senior commissioned officer, Clark's oath requires him to inform the president when the chain of command is compromised.
The delay caused by Tuberville's hold could potentially lead to Clark's nomination expiring if not confirmed by early January. Pentagon officials have expressed disappointment over the delay, citing Clark's qualifications and strategic expertise for the critical position.
Defense Secretary Austin has faced bipartisan criticism for initially failing to inform Biden about his health issues and hospitalization. While Austin took responsibility and apologized to Biden, he maintained that there were no lapses in control of the department or national security during his absence.
Following the incident, the Pentagon conducted a review and implemented improved procedures to prevent similar occurrences. The White House also introduced new guidelines to ensure timely notification whenever a Cabinet head is unable to fulfill their duties.
