It won’t come as a surprise to many Missourians that President-elect Donald Trump and I have had our disagreements.
I’ve never been someone to shy away from a fight – and if the president-elect pursues policies that I think will harm Missouri’s families, I’m going to stand up for my state. But when it comes to continuing to expand job opportunities, to protecting families and consumers, and especially to keeping America safe – I want Trump to succeed. That will mean the country succeeds.
I’ve always worked to build consensus and actively seek out opportunities to work with my Republican friends and colleagues. In Washington, there’s just too much “red vs. blue” partisan fighting for fighting’s sake. So I’ve teamed up with senators across the political aisle on legislation to cut spending, boost job opportunities, slash bureaucratic red tape, better protect consumers and combat sexual violence.
This week, after one-on-one meetings and public Senate hearings, I’ve again decided to not let party labels get in the way of good public service.
When the Senate moves to approve or reject President-elect Trump’s cabinet nominees, I’ll be voting to support Gen. James Mattis for secretary of Defense and Gen. John Kelly for secretary of Homeland Security. Here’s why:
I’ve worked with both men during my years on the Armed Services Committee. Both of them have distinguished careers on the front lines of our national defense, guarding the freedoms that Americans enjoy every single day. They are genuinely passionate about keeping Americans safe and have the experience and expertise to successfully do so.
The support that Mattis has among our service members is legendary. In our meeting, I invited him to visit Missouri’s military installations, to see firsthand the incredible work being done in our state, and why Missouri is such a leader in our national security. Kelly commanded armed forces in the southern hemisphere and knows the danger the illegal drug trade poses to our nation. I believe he will be a thoughtful, moderate voice in the new administration.
In addition to a lifetime of military service, they both have another quality that we Missourians value: candor. In my meetings with them, they were honest and plain-spoken, and they didn’t mince words. I believe they have the strength to speak truly to elected leaders.
I’m confident both will serve our country honorably and will be terrific parts of Trump’s national security team. And I encourage the president-elect to rely on their experience and wisdom in continuing to keep our homeland safe.
U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill is a senior member of the Armed Services Committee and the top member of her party on the Homeland Security Committee. She can be contacted through McCaskill.Senate.gov/contact.
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