Fischer Statement on Defense Secretary Nomination

Statement

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement upon the president's nomination of Ash Carter to be the next Secretary of Defense:

"I look forward to visiting with Dr. Carter in the coming weeks to discuss his views on national security. He brings to the position impressive experience, including many years at the Pentagon. I am also pleased that he has previously indicated support for nuclear modernization and I look forward to discussing future commitments with him.

"I remain concerned, however, that the administration continues to lack a coherent strategy to counter an array of global crises, from addressing ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine to destroying ISIL in Iraq and Syria. Moreover, it is increasingly clear that this administration relies more heavily on the input of an insular group of White House advisors instead of our military commanders and cabinet secretaries. The president -- and the entire nation -- would benefit from a robust, open debate of our national security policy moving forward."

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