Credited from: NPR
Key takeaways from the confirmation of Lt. Gen. Dan "Razin" Caine:
The Senate confirmed retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Dan "Razin" Caine as the new chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in a decisive 60-25 vote early Friday morning. This vote comes nearly two months after President Trump fired Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., the second Black general to lead in this position, amid concerns over the Pentagon's leadership diversity initiatives. Caine's confirmation was anticipated, gaining bipartisan support even as tensions remain high over Trump’s military reshuffles.
Caine, a decorated F-16 pilot, brings extensive combat experience and leadership from various special operations commands, along with roles at the CIA. Notably, he does not meet the prerequisite criteria outlined in a 1986 law concerning the Joint Chiefs chair, as he has not held positions like combatant commander or service chief. However, the president has the authority to waive these requirements if deemed necessary for national security, which was the case for Caine's nomination.
The vote, taking place shortly before the Senate adjourned for a two-week recess, highlights the contentious political landscape. Senate Majority Leader John Thune orchestrated the early morning voting session after Democrats resisted a rapid confirmation process. Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer expressed his discontent regarding Brown's firing, stating his concerns about Caine’s potential alignment with Trump’s controversial policies, while acknowledging Caine’s military service. Despite the partisan divide, 15 Democrats and Independent Senator Angus King supported Caine’s confirmation.
During his confirmation hearing, Caine assured the Senate he would remain bipartisan and offer truthful military advice to the president. He refuted Trump's claim that he had worn a "Make America Great Again" hat during their first meeting, insisting, "I have never worn any political merchandise." He also emphasized his commitment to push back against potentially illegal orders, asserting that it’s part of his duty to resist such directives.
Trump has praised Caine, emphasizing their bond dating back to their meeting in Iraq. In contrast, there had been tension with former Chairman Gen. Mark Milley, who faced backlash from Trump for his attempts to maintain military nonpartisanship. Following Trump's inauguration, Milley's portrait was swiftly removed from the Pentagon, which marked a notable shift in military leadership dynamics and raised concerns over the politicization of the armed forces.