Austin confronts GOP senator for blocking military nominations over abortion policy

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warned Tuesday that military readiness could be impaired by the growing list of senior military nominations being blocked by Alabama Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville over his opposition to a Pentagon abortion policy.

"Not approving the recommendation for promotions actually creates a ripple effect with the force that makes us far less ready than we need to be," Austin said responding to a question from Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Jack Reed, D-R.I., during a hearing on the Pentagon's defense budget.

Tuberville has been blocking military nominations since last month, over a Pentagon policy that covers the travel costs of service members seeking abortions in states outside of where they are stationed if their base is located in a state that bans the procedure.

Austin spoke directly to Tuberville at the hearing over the military's need to promote officials during "one of the most complex times" seen in recent years.

MORE: Military to provide leave, travel expenses for troops seeking abortions out-of-state

"I really implore you to reconsider and allow our nominations to move forward. It will make a significant difference for our force," Austin said.

After the hearing, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D, N.Y., lambasted Tuberville for blocking the Pentagon promotions.

"GOP Senator Tuberville is inflicting unnecessary damage to our military by blocking the promotion of 160 officers," Schumer said in a tweet.

"For what? So he can push the MAGA hard line on blocking women's choice? Women in the military are more than capable of making their own healthcare decisions," Schumer said.

"We're in a situation now where we are beginning to see critical positions that are in jeopardy of not being filled," Reed added.