US Marine Corps lacks Senate-approved leader due to senator’s delay on Pentagon abortion policy.

The United States Marine Corps Faces Leadership Impasse Amidst Abortion Policy Debate

The United States Marine Corps is currently without a senate-confirmed leader due to a deadlock between the Department of Defense and Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) over military policies on abortion.

On Monday, Gen. David Berger stepped down as the commandant of the Marine Corps, leaving the position to Gen. Eric Smith, who will serve as the Marine Corps’ Chief of Staff in an acting capacity. However, the Senate is unable to confirm new military nominees, leaving the Marine Corps without a permanent leader.

President Joe Biden nominated Gen. Smith to be the top uniformed Marine on May 31, but his nomination, along with over 200 others, remains stalled in the U.S. Senate.

In December, Sen. Tuberville announced his decision to halt the Senate from proceeding with military nominations after the Department of Defense implemented a policy to fund travel and leave for abortion policy.”>military service members seeking abortions in states where it is legally restricted. This policy was adopted in response to the tightening of abortion regulations in several U.S. states following the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

Sen. Tuberville argues that the new abortion policy contradicts an existing U.S. law that prohibits the use of taxpayer funds for abortions, except in cases of rape, incest, or when the mother’s life is at risk.

As a result of Sen. Tuberville’s block, military nominees cannot be approved in large batches through unanimous consent, and instead, they must go through slower regular order procedures.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, who implemented the abortion policy, acknowledged the ongoing impasse during Gen. Berger’s command relinquishment ceremony, expressing hope for a swift confirmation of a new commandant.

What Happens Without a Confirmed Commandant?

In an interview with Defense One, Gen. Smith explained that as the acting Marine Corps Commandant, he would have most of the authorities of a fully confirmed commandant, with a few exceptions.

However, he mentioned that he would not be able to reside in the commandant’s house or have a security detail. Despite these limitations, Gen. Smith is prepared to fulfill his role and lead the Marine Corps effectively.