Three Military Branches Operating Without Confirmed Leaders Amid Promotion Standoff

Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville has placed holds on over 300 military officer promotions over objections to the Pentagon's abortion policies.
The chief of naval operations has retired without a confirmed replacement, leaving the Navy, Army, and Marine Corps without Senate-confirmed heads.
This situation marks the first time in history that three military branches are simultaneously missing confirmed leadership.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warned the standoff is degrading readiness, disrupting families, and posing risks to national security.
President Biden has nominated the first woman to lead the Navy, but her confirmation is stalled due to Tuberville's opposition.