Defense secretary nominee James Mattis is well-liked by most members of Congress, but that doesn't mean his confirmation process will be easy.
The retired Marine Corps general's path to the top of the Defense Department marks an early test for President-elect Donald Trump, and his ability to work with Congress as he sets and pursues his agenda.
Mattis retired in 2013, so he'll need a waiver from Congress to get around federal rules mandating seven years between military service and assuming the top Pentagon post. Congress in December approved an easier process for that at the start of next session, but lawmakers will still have time for debate on the issue.
Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain, R-Ariz., has already signaled strong support for Mattis. But several Democrats have voiced concern about brushing aside the waiting period, and will likely try to slow the process and ensure proper congressional oversight isn’t skipped, even with Republicans controlling both the House and Senate.
If that happens, it could turn Trump’s first high-profile military move into political drama, something the military and Mattis are both desperate to avoid.
There likely will be numerous discussions in coming weeks about the importance of civilian control of the military and the potential pitfalls of retired generals taking prominent political roles. But in the end, few lawmakers are offering real objections to Mattis’ nomination, and he should take over the post before the spring. Follow @LeoShane
Leo Shane III covers Congress, Veterans Affairs and the White House for Military Times. He can be reached at lshane@militarytimes.com .
Leo covers Congress, Veterans Affairs and the White House for Military Times. He has covered Washington, D.C. since 2004, focusing on military personnel and veterans policies. His work has earned numerous honors, including a 2009 Polk award, a 2010 National Headliner Award, the IAVA Leadership in Journalism award and the VFW News Media award.
