WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today issued the following statement:

“Ash Carter is a strong choice for Secretary of Defense.  He brings vast experience to the Pentagon, having served as Deputy Secretary of Defense, among other roles at the Pentagon, as well as extensive experience in the private sector and academia.

“Ash is an effective leader who has demonstrated a firm sense of integrity and sound judgment throughout his career in public service.  His command of national security policy and his commitment to our men and women in uniform will serve him well as our next Secretary of Defense.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Armed Services Committee to ensure Ash receives a fair and expeditious nomination process.”

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