Vice President J.D. Vance addressed the Senate Armed Services Committee, pressing for Elbridge Colby’s confirmation to be under secretary of defense for policy at the Department of Defense. Vance described Colby as a strategic thinker with a clear vision for strengthening the military and reversing the damage done by years of misguided leadership.
Colby, Vance argued, understands that military strength depends on economic stability and a well-functioning industrial base. Without a steady supply of critical materials—such as artillery shells, drones, and other advanced weapons—the U.S. risks being unprepared for potential conflicts. Colby, he said, has long been sounding the alarm on the nation’s dwindling manufacturing capabilities and the urgent need for a revitalized defense industry.
Vice President @JDVance introduces Elbridge Colby to the Senate Armed Services Committee to become the 3rd highest ranking official at the DOD:
"Bridge predicted what we would be talking about 4 years down the road, 5 years down the road, 10 years down the road. He saw around… pic.twitter.com/Ueg0oRiRBl
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) March 4, 2025
Reflecting on past conversations, Vance noted that Colby has been ahead of the curve in identifying emerging threats. While some in Washington have been slow to recognize shifting global dynamics, Colby has consistently warned about vulnerabilities in U.S. defense strategy. His foresight, Vance suggested, makes him an essential asset for shaping military policy in the coming years.
Vance also addressed concerns about partisanship, assuring senators that Colby is not a rigid ideologue. Despite his conservative background, Colby has engaged in serious policy discussions with lawmakers from both parties. His ability to present independent, well-researched perspectives, Vance said, makes him the right choice for a senior Pentagon role.
Beyond defense strategy, Vance stressed the importance of reforming how the military purchases equipment. Simply increasing the budget is not enough—procurement processes must be restructured to encourage innovation and competition. The U.S. cannot afford to rely solely on outdated systems while adversaries like China aggressively expand their technological capabilities.
Vance closed by urging the Senate to confirm Colby, emphasizing that his leadership will be crucial in rebuilding a military capable of meeting 21st-century challenges. The Trump administration, he said, is committed to ensuring America’s armed forces are no longer constrained by past failures.
