Missed Votes
Seven senators did not cast votes on Noem’s confirmation, including independent Senator Angus King (Maine) and Democratic Senators Jeff Merkley (Ore.), Brian Schatz (Hawaii), Tina Smith (Minn.), Raphael Warnock (Ga.), and Ron Wyden (Ore.). Republican Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) was also absent.
As Noem steps into her role, these bipartisan votes may signal a willingness among lawmakers to work together on national security, despite deep divisions on other issues.