First female nominee, Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chosen by President Biden to lead US Navy

President Biden has nominated Admiral Lisa Franchetti, making her the first woman ever to be chosen to lead the US Navy, representing a significant milestone for gender equality within the Pentagon’s military service branches. The nominee, who has an impressive career record, formerly served as the head of the US 6th Fleet and US naval forces in South Korea, and she also boasts experience as an aircraft carrier strike commander.

However, before she can take up this prestigious position as Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Franchetti’s nomination must pass the confirmation process by the US Senate. This step is vital in securing her place as a member of the elite Joint Chiefs of Staff—a distinguished group comprising top senior military officers.

Having served for an outstanding 38 years in the Navy, Admiral Franchetti is no stranger to breaking barriers. She previously achieved the rank of four-star admiral, becoming only the second woman in history to reach this rank.

Upon announcing her nomination, President Biden praised her extensive expertise in both operational and policy arenas, emphasizing that she will once again make history with her confirmation to the role.

However, there is a potential hurdle in the confirmation process due to an ongoing protest by one lawmaker. The Senate is currently facing obstacles in confirming military leaders, including Admiral Franchetti, due to opposition against a military abortion policy. Senator Tommy Tuberville, a Republican from Alabama, is blocking more than 270 military promotions in protest of a Pentagon policy that covers the travel expenses of service members seeking abortions out of state.

Despite this challenge, President Biden criticized Senator Tuberville’s actions, stating that they are not only wrong but also pose a danger to the nation’s security and the readiness of the US Armed Forces. The President argued that the delay in confirming military leaders jeopardizes the country’s ability to maintain its status as the greatest fighting force in history. He expressed disappointment with his Republican colleagues in the Senate for allowing this situation to persist.

If confirmed, Admiral Lisa Franchetti’s nomination would serve as a groundbreaking moment in the history of the US Navy and pave the way for further progress in promoting diversity and inclusion within the armed forces. Her appointment would undoubtedly signal a significant step forward for gender equality and representation in the military’s highest ranks. Until the confirmation process is complete, Admiral Franchetti will serve in an acting capacity, with the expectation that she will take up her role when the current Chief’s four-year term concludes in the fall.