The Lawfare Podcast
Lawfare Archive: General Austin as Secretary of Defense
Sep 30, 2023
Guests Mike O'Hanlon and Kori Schake discuss the nomination of General Austin as Secretary of Defense, addressing concerns about his lack of experience in Asia, his expertise in defense companies, and the importance of diversity in the cabinet. They also explore other potential candidates, confirmation politics, and the challenges General Austin may face in the role.
36:35
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Quick takeaways
- General Austin's successful strategy against ISIS deprived them of their caliphate.
- Concerns were raised about the lack of experience in areas like Asia, Russia, and technology for General Austin's nomination as Secretary of Defense.
Deep dives
General Austin's Nomination and Republican Opposition
House Republicans approved a measure to cut Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's salary from more than $221,000 annually to less than $1 due to the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, military recruiting shortfalls, and COVID-19 vaccine policies. While the pay cut is unlikely to become a law, it reflects increasing hostility from conservatives towards military leaders.
