The Senate confirmed Air Force Gen. C.Q. Brown as the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, by a vote of 83-11. Brown’s confirmation comes after months of delays due to a hold placed on his nomination by Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama. Tuberville was protesting the Pentagon’s policy of paying for travel when a service member has to go out of state to get an abortion or other reproductive care.
Brown’s confirmation is a historic moment, as he will become the first African American to serve as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He is a highly respected and experienced officer who has served in a variety of leadership positions throughout his career. Brown is also known for his strong advocacy for diversity and inclusion in the military.
As chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Brown will be the highest-ranking military officer in the United States and the principal military advisor to the president, the secretary of defense, and the National Security Council. He will be responsible for overseeing the operations of the U.S. armed forces and providing military advice to the president and other senior government officials.
Brown’s confirmation is a welcome development for the U.S. military and for the nation as a whole. He is a highly qualified and experienced officer who will provide strong leadership in a challenging time.