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Senate Approves Dan Caine as Next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
In a move confirming the next leader of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Senate ratified the nomination of retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Dan “Razin” Caine on Friday. This decision fills the critical role nearly two months after President Donald Trump dismissed the previous chairman.
Controversial Nomination Follows Predecessor’s Dismissal
President Trump put forward Caine as his choice for the nation’s top military post in February. This followed the sudden removal of Gen. CQ Brown Jr., the second Black general to hold the chairman position. Reports suggest this change was part of the administration’s efforts to remove military leaders perceived as supportive of diversity and inclusion within the armed forces.
Senate Confirms Caine Amidst Political Divisions
The Senate vote to confirm Caine concluded with a 60-25 tally during an overnight session. This vote took place just before senators adjourned for a two-week recess, highlighting the urgency to fill this key military leadership position.
Caine’s Background and Qualifications
Lt. Gen. Caine brings a distinguished background as a highly decorated F-16 combat pilot. His career includes leadership roles within various special operations commands, involvement in sensitive Pentagon initiatives, and service with the CIA.
Waiver Required for Top Military Post
Notably, Caine’s professional history does not fully align with the standard prerequisites for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, as outlined in a 1986 statute. These typical requirements include prior service as a combatant commander or service chief.
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Presidential Authority and National Interest
However, the legislation permits the president to waive these stipulations if it is deemed “necessary in the national interest.” This waiver was invoked to facilitate Caine’s nomination and subsequent confirmation.
Political Timing and Senate Dynamics
The timing of Caine’s confirmation, occurring late at night and immediately preceding a Senate recess, underscores the rapid pace at which Republican senators have been advancing President Trump’s nominees. Conversely, Democrats have sought to slow down this process, aiming to demonstrate their opposition to the administration’s policies.
Senate Vote Procedure and Bipartisan Support
Senate Majority Leader John Thune initiated the early morning vote after Democratic senators raised objections to expediting the nomination’s procedural votes. Despite these procedural hurdles, Caine garnered bipartisan support during the confirmation process.
Caine Pledges Apolitical Stance and Candor
During his confirmation hearing earlier in April, Caine affirmed his commitment to providing frank counsel to President Trump and emphasized his intent to remain apolitical in the role of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. He also explicitly denied President Trump’s account of him wearing a “Make America Great Again” hat during their initial meeting.
Addressing Concerns on Legality and Civilian Use of Military
Senator Elissa Slotkin from Michigan questioned Caine about his response should he receive an order to direct the military in potentially illegal actions, specifically concerning domestic law enforcement involving civilians. In response to the hypothetical scenario, Caine asserted, “Senator, I think that’s the duty and the job that I have, yes,” indicating his willingness to challenge such directives.
Trump’s Prior Interactions with Caine
President Trump’s association with Caine traces back to his first term in office. As mentioned in a 2019 address, they initially met during a visit to Iraq. Trump has publicly characterized Caine as “a real general, not a television general.”
Contrast with Trump’s Past Military Relations
In contrast, President Trump’s relationship with former Chairman Gen. Mark Milley became strained during his previous administration. This deterioration occurred as Gen. Milley openly resisted and acted to prevent what he perceived as attempts to politicize the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs position. Gen. Milley emphasized to service members that their oath was to the Constitution, not to any individual president.
Post-Inauguration Changes for Former Chairman Milley
Within hours of President Trump’s inauguration in January, Gen. Milley’s portrait was removed from the Pentagon’s Chairman of the Joint Chiefs display. Furthermore, Milley’s security clearance and security detail were also rescinded.