WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement about her conversation with President-elect Biden’s Secretary-designate of the Department of Defense, General Lloyd Austin:

 “I recently had a conversation with General Lloyd Austin, President-elect Biden’s qualified nominee for Secretary of Defense. We discussed the importance of revitalizing our alliances, countering threats from China and Russia, and supporting the Minnesota National Guard.

 “Last week, the President-elect laid out national security concerns resulting from the outgoing Administration’s reluctance to participate in a seamless transition. We need someone with experience who can step in on day one and ensure our service members are protected as they guard our interests at home and abroad. And as we recently voted to override the President’s veto of the National Defense Authorization Act, it’s more important than ever that we have someone in the Pentagon who respects the lives and livelihoods of our troops.

 “General Austin has over 40 years of military experience, and I am confident he will be able to lead our armed forces during a time of crisis across the globe.”