Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the following statement on the confirmation of Mark Esper as the U.S. Secretary of Defense:
"Strong military leadership is critical to U.S. security, and I applaud the Senate for confirming Mark Esper as our nation's next Secretary of Defense. I know him personally -- he is a proven leader who has commanded troops in battle and also has extensive experience in defense policy and navigating department issues. With complex challenges and growing threats across the globe, Secretary Esper will provide a steady hand as we work to increase military readiness, lethality, and our defense capabilities. I look forward to working with him to support our brave men and women in uniform and keep our country safe."