Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville, a Republican, has lifted his one-man block against military promotions for almost a year. Since February, he has blocked all military promotions in protest against a policy of allowing time off and travel reimbursement for service members’ travel to receive abortion or fertility care.
He has blocked hundreds of promotions, leaving the Pentagon struggling to operate as many acting heads lack the authority to hire staff or occupy their offices.
He has faced intense criticism from both sides of the aisle, and his own state, where 55% of individuals polled said he was hurting national security. Relenting, he has released his holds on all but the highest levels of the military, leaving about 11 four-star positions in limbo.
Asked about the results of his blockade, Tuberville said: “It was pretty much a draw. I mean, they didn't get what they wanted, we didn't get what we wanted. […] And so, just unfortunate the American people didn't get a voice.”
