Heinrich Statement On Confirmation Of Dr. Ashton Carter To Be Defense Secretary

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) voted to confirm Dr. Ashton Carter to be the next Department of Defense Secretary. Carter was confirmed by the senate by a vote of 93 to 5.

Senator Heinrich, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, made the following statement:

"Dr. Carter's science-based approach to issues will bring a unique ability to understand and navigate the myriad national security challenges the United States and our allies must confront around the world, particularly in the Middle East, Europe and the Asia Pacific region.

"New Mexico's military installations, testing ranges, and national labs play a crucial role in our national security goals, especially in nuclear deterrence and nonproliferation. During the confirmation hearing, I was pleased to hear that Dr. Carter is committed to continued investment in our national labs to ensure their long-term viability. Dr. Carter's expertise as a physicist gives him an informed perspective on the services New Mexico's defense installations and labs provide, and his vast experience at the Department of Defense makes him no stranger to the many issues we face to keep our country safe.

"I look forward to working with Dr. Carter to address today's challenges as well as utilizing New Mexico's unique resources to contribute to our collective national security mission."

Last week, Heinrich questioned Carter during his confirmation hearing.