Jamiesfeast – According to the New Republic, Democrats have requested an investigation into Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville on February 2, 2024. This comes after Tuberville blocked nearly 400 military personnel nominations for 10 months. The reason behind Tuberville’s actions is his disagreement with the Department of Defense’s out-of-state abortion reimbursement policy.
The article states that:
Ranking Oversight Member Jamie Raskin and Representative Robert Garcia have now asked the Government Accountability Office, an independent and nonpartisan federal agency that audits and investigates Congress, to look into Tuberville’s stunt. The pair asked the GAO to look specifically at the effect Tuberville’s blockade had on military readiness, national security, and military families. They also asked the agency to evaluate the processes the Department of Defense uses “when military promotions are stalled for prolonged and indefinite periods.”
According to Stars and Stripes, military leaders faced the challenge of assuming multiple roles without the necessary legal authorities to make decisions. As a result, junior officers were deprived of opportunities for career advancement during this period.
The article provided additional information and stated:
Some military spouses said they became unemployed because their spouse’s career and new duty location were in limbo and children ended up not enrolled in schools because expected moves were blocked. Several families said they had to cancel relocations after their belongings had already been shipped.
On December 5, 2023, the Senate proceeded with confirmations following Tuberville’s decision to lift his hold.