Republican Block Leaves Marine Corps Leaderless for First Time in Over a Century

The US Marine Corps is currently without a Senate-confirmed leader for the first time in over a century due to a Republican senator's refusal to lift his block on military nominations. The hold by Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville is in protest of Pentagon reproductive health policies. The lack of confirmed leadership is causing concerns about stable and orderly transitions, military readiness, and the message it sends to allies and adversaries. Over 200 general and flag officer nominations are currently stalled in the Senate, with more expected by the end of the year.