Political Battle Over Military Promotions and Abortion Policies Continues in Senate.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warned that delaying the promotions of 160 senior military officers due to Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville's hold will harm national security. Tuberville's hold is based on new policies aimed at shoring up troops' access to abortions. Austin called the impact of delaying routine military promotions "absolutely critical" as dozens, potentially hundreds, of general and flag officer picks pile up. Tuberville has indicated he won't stop his obstruction of nominees unless the abortion policy is reversed or suspended.