Overview

• Elbridge Colby, a former Trump administration official, has been confirmed as Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, the Pentagon's third-ranking position.
• The Senate vote saw three Democrats join most Republicans in support, while Sen. Mitch McConnell was the sole Republican dissenting, citing concerns over Colby's strategic priorities.
• Colby is known for co-authoring the 2018 National Defense Strategy, which emphasizes countering China and shifting U.S. military focus to the Indo-Pacific region.
• Criticism of Colby centered on his past remarks regarding Iran, Ukraine, and Taiwan, though he reassured senators of his commitment to U.S. alliances and military readiness.
• Vice President JD Vance strongly endorsed Colby, praising his foresight on defense strategy, while denouncing McConnell's opposition as politically motivated.