The Senate Armed Services Committee voted 23-2 to permit Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster to serve as national security adviser while on active duty, Defense News reported Tuesday.
Joe Gould writes McMaster appeared before the committee since senators need to approve generals above two-star rank even though the national security adviser post does not require Senate consent.
Sen. Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island) said there is an opportunity for a Senate floor debate on McMaster’s appointment along with topics such as civil-military balance and the National Security Council’s responsibilities.
President Donald Trump picked McMaster to be his national security adviser in February after Michael Flynn resigned from the role.
McMaster previously headed the U.S. Army‘s Capabilities Integration Center and commanded troops during the first Gulf War.
The report said his appointment will move forward for a vote by the full Senate.
