Military Times

GOP senator: Obama picks Ashton Carter to lead Pentagon

Dec 2, 2014

FILE - In this Feb. 12, 2013 file photo, Ashton Carter testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington. Carter has emerged as President Barack Obama's top candidate to become the next defense secretary, according to administration officials, putting him in line to take over a sprawling department that has had an uneasy relationship with the White House. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

WASHINGTON (AP) — A senior Republican senator says President Barack Obama has chosen Ashton Carter as his nominee for defense secretary.

Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma says he was informed of the decision early Tuesday.

Inhofe, the top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, says he supports the choice of Carter to lead the Pentagon "very strongly."

Carter is a former deputy defense secretary. If confirmed, he would replace Chuck Hagel. Hagel announced his resignation last month.

White House officials say no final decision has been made.

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