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| Next US SecDef: James Mattis |
By: Joe Gould and Leo Shane III
WASHINGTON — Congress on Friday passed historic legislation allowing retired US Marine Corps Gen. James Mattis to serve as the next defense secretary, overriding some Democrats who took a stand for civilian control of the military.
The move bypasses a law that mandates a seven-year “cooling off” period between military service and assuming the top civilian defense job. Mattis, 66, retired in 2013 after a 44-year military career and serving as commander of US Central Command.
The House voted 268-151, with mainly Republicans — and 36 Democrats — voting in favor. Many Democrats revolted after the Trump transition team backed Mattis out of his commitment to testify before the House Armed Services Committee on Thursday.
President Obama is expected sign off on legislation allowing Mattis to serve as defense secretary. White House press secretary Josh Earnest told reporters that Obama will not stand in the way of Mattis' appointment once Congress passes the legislation.
Congress is expected to vote to confirm Mattis on Jan. 20, after President-elect Donald Trump is inaugurated.
Read the full story at DefenseNews