Senate Confirmation and Military Promotions: A Disgraceful Victory Lap

Gen. Eric Smith was sworn in as the 39th commandant of the Marine Corps in a small ceremony at the Pentagon, one day after his Senate confirmation. The low-key event was attended by fewer than 10 people, including Smith, his wife, and Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro. Smith, a career infantryman and advocate of force modernization, had been performing the duties of commandant since July. However, his confirmation allows him to issue long-term planning guidance and assume the official title of commandant. The Senate's confirmation of Smith also unblocks the nominations of other senior military officials awaiting confirmation.