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Senate Democrats Employ Unconventional Strategy to Overcome Military Promotions Blockade Amidst GOP Discontent

Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama has refused to allow military nominations to advance even when leaders of his party publicly disavowed his efforts.Credit…Kenny Holston/The New York Times

In an unprecedented move, Senate Democrats are exploring a novel strategy to bypass Senator Tommy Tuberville’s prolonged blockade of senior military promotions. Tuberville, an Alabama Republican, has held up more than 350 senior military positions for nine months, citing his objection to a Pentagon policy providing time off and travel reimbursement to service members seeking abortions or fertility care.

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced plans to temporarily circumvent Senate rules, allowing the confirmation of nearly all military nominees as a bloc, a practice commonplace before Tuberville’s obstruction began in February. Schumer’s maneuver aims to counter the mounting frustration among Republicans and Defense Department officials over Tuberville’s persistent blockade. The recent collapse of Gen. Eric M. Smith, the newly confirmed Marine Corps commandant, intensified concerns about the delay’s impact on military operations, prompting calls for urgent action.

While no clear Republican support for Schumer’s maneuver has emerged, a group of GOP senators expressed their discontent with Tuberville’s tactics on the Senate floor. Senator Lindsey Graham, among others, criticized Tuberville for damaging the military and urged him to end his protest.

Tuberville’s objection centers on a Pentagon policy announced in February, allowing service members to take leave and receive reimbursement for transportation expenses related to abortions or fertility treatments not available at their bases. The ongoing deadlock has raised concerns about the Senate’s ability to address critical military promotions and readiness issues.

Schumer’s proposed workaround would require 60 votes to pass, with some Republicans voicing opposition to the rule change. Despite private discussions, there is uncertainty about whether enough Republicans will support the maneuver. Tuberville remains steadfast, rejecting 61 separate requests to lift his hold, insisting he will maintain it until the Pentagon adheres to the law or Democrats change it.

The situation highlights the divisions within the Senate, prompting bipartisan efforts to find a resolution. The outcome remains uncertain, with potential implications for the military and broader Senate proceedings.

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