Elizabeth Warren raises concerns about Army secretary nominee
By Christopher Rowland GLOBE STAFF SEPTEMBER 11, 2017
WASHINGTON — Senator Elizabeth Warren is expressing doubts about President Trump’s nominee to be secretary of the Army, a decorated veteran who has spent the last seven years as Raytheon’s top lobbyist in Washington.
Warren said in an interview that nominee Mark Esper’s role attempting to influence policy for one of the nation’s top five defense contractors raises questions about his suitability to lead the Army. As its top civilian, Esper would have broad authority over the Army’s weapons purchases and budgets.
Despite her public misgivings, Warren — who has established a mixed track record on Pentagon nominees from defense companies — said she is not prepared to oppose Esper. Her cautious approach is notable given her highly outspoken stances in the past against some Wall Street executives picked for government posts regulating the financial sector, especially investment banker Antonio Weiss, who President Obama wanted to name as deputy treasury secretary.
Warren indicated she will use her perch on the Armed Services Committee to continue to probe into the conflicts of interest inherent in Esper’s selection. The committee has yet to schedule a confirmation hearing.
more
http://www.bostonglobe.com/news/nation/2017/09/11/elizabeth-warren-raises-concerns-about-army-secretary-nominee-from-raytheon/SAIaE04SX2LRScjf6UTFuN/story.html