Pelosi Statement on Nomination of Gen. James Mattis for Secretary of Defense

"The President-elect's impulsive, ill-informed and dangerous ideas on America's military and national security strategy have always been gravely concerning.  The decision to order Americans into combat requires the most serious and somber judgement – but throughout the campaign, President-elect Trump chose to insult the judgement of our military commanders and the fighting ability of our men and women in uniform.

"As Secretary of Defense, General Mattis will have the immense responsibility of improving President Trump's judgement as Commander-in-Chief.  We are grateful that the President-elect reportedly found General Mattis' argument against torture persuasive.  We will need the Secretary of Defense to continue to uphold the laws, alliances and norms that protect our nation and enshrine our values as Americans."