Schumer Statement on the Nomination of Mark Green as Army Secretary

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today released the following statement on the nomination of Mark Green as Army Secretary:  

“In the last decade, we have made important progress creating a more equal and tolerant Armed Forces. This essential effort equally values the contributions of all citizens willing to put their lives on the line to serve our nation; it makes us stronger; and supports the recruitment we need to sustain the all-volunteer force that is the strongest and most capable fighting force in the world.

“While I deeply appreciate and applaud his record of service to this nation, I feel that Mr. Green’s intolerant, extreme and deeply disturbing views, and disparaging comments toward the LGBTQ community, Muslims, Latinos and other groups of Americans – all of whom play important roles in the Army and in our country – are dangerous to morale, cohesion and readiness of our Armed Services and the fabric of America. A man who was the lead sponsor of legislation to make it easier for businesses to discriminate against the LGBTQ community; opposes gay marriage, which is the law of the land; believes being transgender is a ‘disease;’ supports constricting access to legal contraception; and makes deeply troubling comments about Muslims is the wrong choice to lead America’s Army.

“I will oppose Mr. Green’s nomination and urge all my colleagues – Republicans and Democrats alike – in the Senate to do so as well. If President Trump is serious about his pledge to be a president for all Americans, he should abandon consideration of Mr. Green for this position and nominate someone who can faithfully lead and represent all members of the United States Army.”