Graham said he viewed Shanahan, who has been serving as acting secretary since December, as a "logical choice" and that he expects to support him when his nomination comes to the Senate.

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"He has demonstrated to me his detailed understanding that a strong, modern, and well-trained military is essential in a dangerous and complex world," Graham said.

Graham added he hopes Shanahan, as the Pentagon chief, would "advocate for defense policies that lead from the front, not from behind. I also hope and expect he will make it clear to America’s adversaries that we mean what we say, and that our allies see us as a reliable partner."

Sen.(R-S.C.) said on Thursday that he will support's nomination to be's next Defense secretary, despite previously clashing with Shanahan over Syria.The White House's Thursday announcement comes as the Trump administration grapples with rising tensions in a number of high-profile hot spots around the globe.