MILITARY MIGHT
As we saw with the January 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capital, some think it’s enough to carry a big stick. Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin (D-Rochester, Rochester Hills, northern Oakland, parts of Livingston and Ingham counties) understands from her training in the CIA, three tours of duty in Iraq and work at the Pentagon, that it’s best to let your mouth do the work to effect change and get a point across. Witness a letter sent by her and five other members of Congress to Secretary of Defense-designee Lloyd Austin, a recently retired general, discussing concerns they have regarding civilian control over the military, and its importance, noting his appointment will necessitate a waiver, just as General Mattis’ did, “requiring another waiver so close on its heels, risks this norm becoming moot, and civilian control of the military with it.” The letter states they are seeking certain assurances, including a strong working relationship between the Defense Department and Congress. Slotkin invited Austin to an informal meeting with other members to discuss critical concerns, she said, having known him for over a decade. She now said she “looks forward to continuing the conversation on January 21st when he comes before the House Armed Services Committee.”