Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) is blocking the promotion of Lt. Gen. Ronald P. Clark to four-star commander of U.S. Army operations in the Pacific, citing concerns over Clark's failure to promptly inform President Biden about Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's hospitalization in January. Tuberville's move revives tensions from his previous blockade of military promotions over the Pentagon's abortion policy. Austin, who faced complications from prostate cancer surgery, did not immediately disclose his condition to senior officials, sparking bipartisan outrage. Tuberville's hold will remain until an Inspector General report on the incident is reviewed. The Pentagon has criticized the blockade, emphasizing its negative impact on military readiness.