LOOKING AT POTENTIAL CABINET MEMBER ANTONY BLINKEN'S MILITARY SERVICE


By akirschbaum
Antony Blinkens military service record.

The U.S. Presidential election is fast approaching, and possible nominees are being brought up for each cabinet position. The question on everyone’s mind is if Kamala Harris becomes Commander-in-Chief, will Antony Blinken’s military service and foreign policies help him hold his position as the secretary of state? On September 5, 2024, Blinken said he wouldn’t go for another term. He explained that he would step back and want to spend more time with his family. He added that he might also step away from public service after the Biden administration. But, if Harris were to select Blinken as a member of her cabinet, this action could potentially influence his decision. Learn more about his connection to the military and stance on foreign policies.

Antony Blinken’s Military Service and Foreign Policies

Blinken comes from a family of public officers and diplomats, so it is no surprise that most of his life was devoted to government work. Antony Blinken’s military service and foreign policies had a major impact on his three decades of work spanning three presidential administrations. His work showed an emphasis on protecting national interests and delivering the best outcomes for the American people.During his tenure as President Obama's deputy secretary of state, he gained valuable experience in both military and foreign policy. This contributed significantly to the development of military policies and tactics. He was the head of the interagency deputies committee that planned and developed important foreign policy initiatives. He also served as the principal deputy national security advisor. Blinken worked closely with then-Vice President Biden on national security topics. He was a senior director for European affairs during the Clinton Administration. With his extensive experience, President Biden nominated him to be the Secretary of State, representing the United State’s interests abroad.

Other Cabinet Members Who Served in the Military

People who serve in the military develop a strong sense of leadership and responsibility that prepares them to make high-stakes decisions. Just like with Antony Blinken’s military services and foreign policies, these members can use their military experience to guide their decision-making on important national issues.

Lloyd Austin III, Defense Secretary

Austin is the first Black person to lead the Pentagon and a former senior U.S. commander in the Middle East. Throughout his 41-year Army tenure, he held positions of command in battalions, corps, divisions, and brigades. In recognition of his command of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, Mr. Austin received the Silver Star. Mr. Austin completed his uniformed career as the Commander of U.S. Central Command, which oversees all military operations in the Middle East and Afghanistan. This is followed by a stint as the Vice Chief of Staff of the Army. He was part of the coalition that focused on fighting ISIS in Syria and Iraq during this term. He retired from the Army in April 2016.

Pete Buttigieg, Transportation Secretary

Pete Buttigieg was a former mayor of South Bend, Indiana. He made a name for himself in national politics by challenging then-President Biden. After barely winning Iowa's Democratic campaign, he became the first openly gay candidate to win a caucus or primary. While still holding the position of mayor, Pete Buttigieg was stationed in a war zone from late March to mid-September 2014 as a member of the Afghanistan Threat Finance Cell (ATFC). As part of his job, he broke down the Taliban's and Al-Qaida's financial support systems and represented the ATFC at high-level meetings. He was awarded multiple decorations for his service. This includes the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal.​

Potential Cabinet Members in Harris’ Ticket

The speculations about who may be in a potential Harris Cabinet if she wins in November are becoming more intense. Here are some of the possible picks for the position:

  • Secretary of Defense: Michèle Flournoy might eventually get her chance in a future Harris administration, becoming the first female secretary of defense. Flournoy had the highest position ever held by a woman in the department's history during her three years as undersecretary of defense for policy under Obama. 
  • Secretary of State: Few secretaries of state hold office for two terms, and Antony Blinken is most likely not going to be nominated. William Burns, the current Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director, has his name out there because of his experience and diplomatic expertise. Chris Coons is also being considered because he is a seasoned senator and is recognized for his nonpartisan approach.
  • Secretary of the Treasury: Wally Adeyemo, the Deputy Treasury Secretary, is well-versed in fiscal policy and economic strategy. Gina Raimondo, the current Secretary of Commerce, is renowned for her abilities to handle economic difficulties.​
  • Attorney General: Doug Jones is a former senator renowned for his moderate stance and support of civil rights. Roy Cooper, the governor of North Carolina and former state attorney general, is another choice for this role because he has a good reputation for legal reform.​

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