Tester Votes to Confirm President Trump’s Secretary of Defense

Senator: “Americans deserve a Secretary of Defense with an exemplary record defending this country”

U.S. Senator Jon Tester today released the following statement on his vote to confirm Mark T. Esper, President Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense:

“Montanans—and all Americans—deserve a Secretary of Defense with an exemplary record defending this country and a deep commitment to our men and women in uniform. At a time of rising tensions around the world, Secretary Esper personally assured me that he will oppose any reckless attack on Iran that would force the United States into another endless, costly war. I will be holding the Secretary to his word and encouraging him to visit Malmstrom Air Force Base and Montana’s Army and Air National Guard, to see firsthand the critical role Montanans play in our national defense.”

The Senate voted 90-8 to confirm Mr. Esper, who currently serves as Secretary of the Army, as Secretary of Defense.