WASHINGTON — Dan Driscoll has been confirmed by the Senate to serve as the next Army secretary, receiving a 66-28 vote in his favor. At 38, Driscoll, who hails from North Carolina, is a former soldier and veteran of the Iraq War. His previous role involved advising Vice President JD Vance during their time together at Yale Law School. Driscoll’s military service was brief, spending less than four years in the Army and attaining the rank of first lieutenant.
At his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Driscoll emphasized his family’s military heritage, noting the service of his father and grandfather in the Army. He committed to prioritizing the well-being of soldiers if confirmed. “We are a family that is grateful to have had the privilege of wearing the uniform of the United States Army,” Driscoll stated. “We understand the gravity of leading soldiers in and out of combat,” he added.
Driscoll is taking the lead at a time when the Army is actively working to address recruiting challenges by overhauling its programs and workforce. Concurrently, the Army is in the process of modernizing its weapon systems. Driscoll will also have to manage the aftermath of the Trump administration’s efforts to significantly reduce the size of the federal workforce and ensure these reductions do not compromise national security.
The confirmation hearing was mostly smooth, with discussions centering on the Army’s need for modernization, recruitment improvements, and strengthening the military industrial base. When queried about his stance on reforms to combat sexual assault within the military, Driscoll expressed a desire for an environment where his daughter could serve without fear. “We need to create a culture where that is not tolerated in any way,” he affirmed.
Senators Elissa Slotkin and Tammy Duckworth raised tough questions regarding Driscoll’s commitment to following lawful orders. They specifically asked if he would resist illegal orders, such as those involving the use of active-duty soldiers for border law enforcement. Driscoll replied, “I reject the premise that the president or secretary of defense would issue such an order. But I will always follow the law.”
Slotkin also questioned Driscoll about his stance on revoking the pension of an honorably discharged Army officer, an issue that has gained attention due to potential political moves against retired Army General Mark Milley. Despite being pressed for a direct response, Driscoll avoided answering by labeling it a “hypothetical” situation. However, he concluded by voicing support for the president’s authority to execute lawful orders. This exchange likely influenced Slotkin’s and Duckworth’s decision to vote against his confirmation.
The Army records indicate Driscoll served as an armor officer from August 2007 to March 2011, including a deployment to Iraq from October 2009 to July 2010. In 2020, Driscoll attempted to enter politics by running in the Republican primary for a congressional seat in North Carolina, securing roughly 8% of the vote amid numerous contenders.
