President Barack Obama has chosen Marine Commandant Gen. Joseph Dunford for the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, a decision that has garnered bipartisan support from the lawmakers that will be responsible for confirming his nomination over the next couple months.
Dunford joined the Joint Chiefs of Staff as Marine commandant in October 2015. An infantry officer, he previously served as commander of United States Forces Afghanistan from February 2013 to August 2014, where he played a key role in the transition to Afghan-led security. He also led the 5th Marine Regiment during the invasion of Iraq in 2003.
“I know Joe. I trust him. He’s already proven his ability to give me his unvarnished military advice based on his experience on the ground,” Obama said during an announcement at the White House. “Under his steady hand, we’ve achieved key milestones, including the transition to Afghan responsibility for security, historic Afghan elections and the drawdown of U.S. forces.”
This seeming independence from the Obama administration is a boon to Dunford’s chances of being confirmed by the Senate. As the top-ranked official in the military, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs acts as the administration’s principal adviser, but Republicans in both chambers have charged that the president has stifled dissent from military leaders in order to push forward his own political agenda.
Obama today also announced the nomination of Air Force Gen. Paul J. Selva for the post of vice chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Selva is currently the commander of U.S. Transportation Command, the joint command responsible for moving troops and cargo around the world. During his time the head of the Air Force’s Air Mobility Command, Selva established a reputation “as a voice for change and innovation,” Obama said.
If confirmed, Dunford and Selva would replace current chairman Army Gen. Martin Dempsey and vice-chair Navy Adm. James “Sandy” Winnefeld, who are set to retire this year.
The nominations have thus far generated support from congressional Republicans and Democrats. Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain (R-Ariz.) foresees no obstacles that would hold up Dunford’s confirmation, he told reporters today.
“I am a strong supporter of Gen. Dunford. I have known him for many years going back to the Iraq War and Afghanistan, and I think he’s an outstanding selection,” he said. Confirmation hearings will likely begin in either July or September.
McCain has a combative relationship with Dempsey, who the senator has criticized publicly for being too deferential to Obama. However, McCain said Dunford will be more likely to give candid advice to the president.
“I think he’ll speak truth to power, that’s a habit the Marines have, and I think that he will also have the benefit of his experience in leadership roles in combat.” The SASC chairman also wants to see Dunford help restore the morale of troops, which has been damaged by sequestration, he added.
McCain also voiced support for Selva’s nomination. “I think he’s done a good job in a very tough business,” he said. TRANSCOM is “an aspect of the military that doesn’t get a lot of publicity, but is very important.”
SASC’s top Democrat, Rep. Jack Reed (D-R.I), strongly supports Dunford’s nomination and was present during the White House announcement.
“General Dunford has the experience and vision to lead the Joint Chiefs and help shape our national security strategy at a time of enormous global challenges,” he said in a statement. “I have come to greatly value General Dunford’s counsel and insight, and I particularly appreciate the concern he has for our men and women in uniform under his command.”
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) told reporters today that Dunford is “the best choice available among many good choices.”
Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.) called him an “outstanding choice.”
Although not directly responsible for confirming nominees, members of the House have also expressed support. HASC Chairman Mac Thornberry (R-Texas) is encouraged by Dunford’s combat experience and looks forward to receiving his military advice, he said in a statement. Rep. Randy Forbes (R-Va.), chairman of the seapower and projection forces subcommittee, praised Dunford’s work as Marine commandant.
Defense Secretary Ashton Carter, who attended the White House announcement, issued a statement welcoming the nominations.
“Gen. Dunford has been an infantry officer at every level, and Gen. Selva has been an innovator throughout his career. They’re exemplary leaders,” he said. “They both have the strategic perspective and operational experience to help guide our military and advise the president at a time of much change in the world.”
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Welsh and Adm. Samuel Locklear, head of U.S. Pacific Command, were also considered frontrunners for the nomination.