Overview

• Retired Lt. Gen. Dan Caine, nominated by President Trump to chair the Joint Chiefs of Staff, begins his Senate confirmation hearing on April 1, 2025.
• Caine lacks the statutory prerequisites for the role, but these requirements can be waived by the president, raising concerns about adherence to traditional norms.
• The nomination follows the controversial dismissal of Gen. CQ Brown Jr., viewed by critics as part of a broader effort to align military leadership with political priorities.
• Caine's extensive military background includes leadership in special operations, classified Pentagon programs, and a role as associate director for military affairs at the CIA.
• Senators are expected to question Caine's independence from Trump and his ability to uphold the apolitical nature of the military.