The U.S. Senate has confirmed Brian Birdwell, a Republican senator from Texas, to the position of assistant secretary of defense, marking his return to the Pentagon. The confirmation, which took place on Monday, featured a narrow vote of 46-43 among senators, alongside a slate of other nominees.
Birdwell, who has served five terms representing Granbury, Texas, previously worked in the Department of the Army at the Pentagon. He experienced life-threatening injuries during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks when a plane crashed mere yards from his office.
Earlier this year, Birdwell announced his decision not to seek re-election for Senate District 22, where he has served for 15 years. The White House had put forth his nomination in October.
In a statement following his confirmation, Birdwell expressed gratitude to his constituents and acknowledged the support from Texas U.S. Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn throughout the nomination process.
“Let me again thank you for the privilege and honor of serving you for nearly 16 years in the State Senate,” Birdwell remarked. “I ask for your prayers as I take on my new responsibilities, and for our next state senator, that they may be granted wisdom in serving the district.”
State Representative David Cook, a Republican from Mansfield, is vying to succeed Birdwell after winning the Republican nomination decisively in March. He will compete against Amy Martinez-Salas, a first-time Democratic candidate, in the upcoming November election.
The Texas Tribune Festival, sponsored by JPMorgan Chase, is set to take place from September 24 to 26 in downtown Austin, with the first round of speakers already announced. Tickets for the event are available now.
