WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, today issued the following statement after the Biden-Harris administration announced the nomination of Frank Kendall to serve as Secretary of the Air Force and Gina Ortiz Jones to serve as Undersecretary of the Air Force.
“Frank Kendall is exactly the kind of public servant we need at the helm of the Air Force at a time when the service is navigating so many unique challenges, including effective acquisition to meet our nation’s future threats. With more than 40 years of experience in defense and national security, and with a particular focus on acquisition policy during his tenure in the Obama administration, I cannot think of a better, more equipped leader to tackle these issues head on.
“As an Air Force veteran who deployed to Iraq, Gina Ortiz Jones has served her country both in and out of uniform. If confirmed, Ms. Jones would be the first woman of color to serve as Under Secretary of the Air Force, marking yet another historic nomination as the Biden-Harris administration continues to prove their commitment to building a diverse Department of Defense that reflects the American population.
“I look forward to working with both nominees to overcome the significant challenges facing the Air Force once they are confirmed by the Senate.”
“Frank Kendall is exactly the kind of public servant we need at the helm of the Air Force at a time when the service is navigating so many unique challenges, including effective acquisition to meet our nation’s future threats. With more than 40 years of experience in defense and national security, and with a particular focus on acquisition policy during his tenure in the Obama administration, I cannot think of a better, more equipped leader to tackle these issues head on.
“As an Air Force veteran who deployed to Iraq, Gina Ortiz Jones has served her country both in and out of uniform. If confirmed, Ms. Jones would be the first woman of color to serve as Under Secretary of the Air Force, marking yet another historic nomination as the Biden-Harris administration continues to prove their commitment to building a diverse Department of Defense that reflects the American population.
“I look forward to working with both nominees to overcome the significant challenges facing the Air Force once they are confirmed by the Senate.”
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