CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The U.S. Senate voted on Tuesday to confirm Mark Esper as the next secretary of the Department of Defense.
The final vote was 90-8, with Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., voting to approve the nomination.
“Dr. Esper is a proven leader with an exceptional record of service to our country, and that’s exactly the kind of secretary we need at the Department of Defense. Dr. Esper’s experience and character make him incredibly qualified to serve in this critical role; and having traveled with him myself, I know that his demeanor will help him effectively lead the department,” Capito said in a statement.
“I look forward to working together to support our servicemen and women, provide for our national defense, and ensure the safety and security of West Virginians and all Americans.”
Esper served in the Gulf War and spent more than two decades on active duty and with the National Guard and Army Reserve.
Esper was sworn in on Tuesday.