Retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Dan "Razin" Caine has been confirmed by the Senate as the new chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, according to CBS News.
The sequence of events began when President Donald Trump abruptly dismissed the then-chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. CQ Brown Jr. This decision was quickly followed by the nomination of Lt. Gen. Dan Caine in February.
Caine, a three-star general, was considered an unconventional choice for a position typically held by a four-star officer.
A presidential waiver, however, allowed Caine's nomination to proceed, addressing the rank discrepancy. The Senate's confirmation vote, concluding at 60-25, was expedited and scheduled just before a two-week recess. It took place overnight, reflecting the urgency and controversy surrounding the appointment.
Caine's confirmation hearing was held on April 1, 2025, where he appeared before the Senate Armed Services Committee. Throughout the hearing, Caine emphasized his commitment to remaining apolitical and candid in his advisory role to the President.
During his testimony, Caine adamantly denied ever wearing a "Make America Great Again" hat, directly contradicting a story earlier shared by President Trump. This denial was part of his broader attempt to establish his non-partisan stance despite the political undertones of his appointment.
Furthermore, in response to questions from Senator Elissa Slotkin regarding the lawfulness of military orders, Caine affirmed his commitment to oppose any illegal use of military force.
He told the senator, "I think that's the duty and the job that I have, yes," underscoring his readiness to challenge orders that might misuse military authority.
Caine's military background is extensive, highlighted by his experience as an F-16 combat pilot, and his roles in special operations commands and the CIA.
These credentials contributed to President Trump's high regard for him, once describing Caine as "a real general, not a television general" during a 2019 speech recounting their first meeting in Iraq.
The dismissal of Gen. CQ Brown Jr. shocked many, as it came despite his support among several key Congress members and after what seemed to be a cordial interaction with President Trump at an Army-Navy football game.
Gen. Brown's tenure was notably focused on the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, areas where he played a significant strategic role.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, representing South Dakota, played a pivotal role in scheduling the early morning vote. His decision came after Democrats objected to speeding up the voting process, showcasing the divisiveness of Caine's nomination within the Senate.
Caine’s leadership will thus commence under the scrutiny of both supporters and skeptics, making his tenure potentially one of the most closely watched in recent years. His promises to maintain an apolitical stance and to prioritize legal and ethical considerations in military operations will be key metrics in evaluating his effectiveness and integrity as the chairman.
The context of Caine's appointment and the broader campaign by President Trump to reshape military leadership throws a stark light on the ongoing political dynamics influencing military leadership.
With his extensive combat and strategic experience, Caine is set to face the immense responsibilities and challenges that come with being the nation's highest-ranking military officer.
As Lt. Gen. Dan Caine steps into this new role, he carries the complex legacy of his predecessors combined with the contentious circumstances of his appointment.
His actions and decisions will likely have far-reaching implications for the military and national security policies of the United States.