Rep. Elise Stefanik smiles during her introduction at the first hearing of the House Armed Services Committee of the 114th Congress. (Connor Radnovich/Hearst Newspapers)
Rep. Elise Stefanik, the youngest woman ever elected to the House of Representatives, asked about acquisition chain of command at her first hearing as a member of the House Armed Services Committee.
She asked: “What steps are you currently taking to clarify both authorities and improving accountability of the decision-makers within and throughout the chain of command?”
Under Secretary of Defense Frank Kendall said the chain of command is “pretty straight forward” and they have accountability measures in place, including removal of ineffective people.
The hearing covered how well the U.S. military is adjusting to rapidly shifting technology landscapes and what Congress can do to help keep the military well ahead of the curve. Acquisitions became a big part of the discussion.
Her question came after a brief recess for a vote, from which few representatives returned. Staff and public seating areas were mostly full, but only the chairman and one other committee member were present when she posed her question.
She and the several other new Republican members of the committee received a warm introduction from Chairman Mac Thornberry at the beginning of the hearing. Ranking member Adam Smith later recognized the new members on his side of the aisle.
Stefanik also serves on the Committee on Education and the Workforce, which is scheduled to hold a hearing on Feb. 4.
The Capitol Confidential team: