Rep. Calvert Votes for One Time Exemption to Allow General Mattis to Serve as Secretary of Defense

Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42) voted along with a majority (268 to 151) to approve legislation, S. 84, that provides a legal exemption for General James Mattis to serve as Secretary of Defense. The exception is necessary due to existing law that otherwise prohibits a member of the military from serving as Secretary of Defense within seven years of their military service.

"General Mattis is overwhelmingly qualified to serve as our next Secretary of Defense and has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities on and off the battlefield," said Rep. Calvert. "There was no question in my mind that Congress should provide General Mattis with an exemption to serve as Secretary of Defense. While I strongly believe in the tenet of civilian control of the military, I believe that General Mattis is the right person at the right time. He has the experience, knowledge and appreciation for our troops necessary to tackle the many challenges facing our Defense Department and our military around the world."

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