The House of Representatives and Senate approved a waiver Thursday for retired Army Gen. Lloyd Austin to serve as President Biden’s defense secretary. Both votes were overwhelming and bipartisan.
Normally the House has no role in confirming Cabinet secretaries. But Austin retired from the military four years ago, short of the seven years required by law to take the civilian job without a waiver from both houses of Congress.
A Senate vote on Austin’s confirmation is expected as soon as Friday.
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