President Barack Obama has nominated a Republican lawmaker to be the next secretary of the U.S. Army.
Mr. Obama announced the selection of House of Representative member John McHugh at the White House Tuesday.
The president described the New York lawmaker as a distinguished public servant with more than 30 years of service. He said McHugh is a champion of the men and women in uniform and is uniquely qualified for the job.
McHugh would join other Republicans in Mr. Obama's Cabinet - Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.
He would replace current Army Secretary Pete Geren, who was appointed to the post two years ago.