Tuberville Eases Hold on Military Promotions: Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, who previously placed holds on military officer promotions due to objections over Defense Department policies on abortion, has now backed down.
Tuberville signed on to the Military Personnel Confirmation Restoration Act, a bill sponsored by Republican Senators Mike Rounds of South Dakota and Marco Rubio of Florida. This legislation would grant back pay to the military officers whose promotions were delayed, retroactively starting 30 days after President Biden submitted their nominations to the Senate.
Approximately 14 four-star officers’ promotions are still pending. Senator Mark Warner, a Democrat from Virginia, urged Tuberville to lift the holds on all nominees, emphasizing that the delay had a detrimental impact on the country.
Tuberville initiated the blockade in February in response to the Pentagon’s policy allowing travel expenses for military members seeking abortions in states where it remains legal. The hold on promotions was criticized by both Democrats and some Republicans, with concerns raised about its impact on military readiness.
Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa highlighted the internal divisions among Republicans, with some supporting Tuberville’s stance and others expressing concerns about the negative effects on morale. There were calls for a rule change to allow the promotions to proceed collectively, with senators emphasizing the need to find a solution that addresses the policy concerns without impeding military readiness.
READ MORE: Senator Tuberville Eases Military Promotion Holds: Amidst Abortion Policy Dispute
Our Reader’s Queries
Which senator holds up military promotions?
The Republican Senator from Alabama, Tommy Tuberville, recently lifted most of his holds on military nominees. In Washington, the Senate gave unanimous approval to the service members whose promotions had been delayed by Sen. Tuberville as a form of protest against the Defense Department’s abortion policy.
What is Tuberville’s hold?
For months, Tommy Tuberville had delayed military promotions in protest of the Pentagon’s abortion policy. He recently gave in for the majority of promotions, but still held out on a few generals.
Can you refuse a promotion in the Army?
Declining a promotion in the US military, whether you’re enlisted or an officer in any branch, is completely possible. You have the option to say no to any rank advancement.
How do you get promoted in the military?
Officers up for promotion are assessed based on their tenure, performance, and readiness to assume greater responsibility. Multiple promotion failures greatly reduce the likelihood of future advancement opportunities.