Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., endorsed retired Marine Gen. James Mattis for secretary of defense Monday, calling him one of the "finest military officers of his generation."
Mattis met with President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday about the position. His appointment would be one thing Trump and McCain agree on – the two have been at odds since Trump announced his nomination for president, with differing views on Russia, interrogation techniques and immigration, among other issues.
Trump left his meeting with Mattis and later called him "very impressive."
"I am pleased that the President-elect found Gen. Jim Mattis as impressive as I have in the many years I have had the privilege of knowing him," McCain, chairman of the Senate Committee on Armed Services, wrote in a statement released Monday. "Gen. Mattis is one of the finest military officers of his generation and an extraordinary leader who inspires a rare and special admiration of his troops.
"He is a forthright strategic thinker. His integrity is unshakable and unquestionable. And he has earned his knowledge and experience the old-fashioned way: in the crucible of our nation's defense and the service of heroes."
Mattis would need to pass a waiver to be allowed to serve in the position since he exited the Marine Corps just four years ago, the Daily Caller reported.
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