The Senate Armed Services Committee, chaired by U.S. Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), recently appointed three senators to ranking membership on three different armed services subcommittees.
U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE) will chair the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces for the 115th Congress. In this role, Fischer will oversee hearings on nuclear and strategic forces, non-proliferation programs, space programs, nuclear weapons-related activities at the U.S. Department of Energy, and ballistic missile defense.
“There is broad bipartisan consensus in Congress that America needs now, more than any other time since the Cold War, a nuclear deterrent that is modern and effective. I look forward to ensuring this goal is achieved,” Fischer said.
U.S. Sen. Angus King (I-ME) was named the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Airland. As ranking member, King will work with the subcommittee’s chair, U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR), to oversee hearings on equipment and related research for the U.S. Air Force and Army, tactical aviation programs for the Navy and Marine Corps, along with equipment for the National Guard and Reserve.
“I am honored to assume this responsibility, which will give me a platform to advocate on behalf of the men and women of the Army, Air Force, and our National Guard,” King said. “Ensuring that these brave men and women – many of whom call Maine home – have the resources, equipment, and training necessary to make them the most capable fighting force in the world will be my top priority as ranking member.”
U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-HI) will continue to serve as ranking member of the Subcommittee on Seapower for the new Congress. In this role, Hirono oversees hearings on Navy and Marine Corps programs, Marine ground forces, Navy and Marine helicopters, Navy and Marine research and development, and sealift and airlift development programs.
“As ranking member of the Seapower Subcommittee, I will continue to advocate for a strong Navy and Marine Corps, and in support of our service members and their families,” Hirono said.