Not according to his confirmation opening statement


I’m joined today by my spouse, Beth Halpern and my niece, Sophie Kendall. I want to specifically thank
Beth for her love and support. When I returned to government in 2010, Beth and I had been married for
six years and she had no idea what she was getting into. This time is different, and I am especially
grateful for her support in what we both know will be a challenging role should I be confirmed. I’d also
like to acknowledge my six-year-old son James, who is quite excited about his Dad potentially having
something to do with the Space Force. James is a big Star Wars fan, and his reaction when being told
about his Dad’s possible new job was “There’s really a Space Force?” There certainly is a Space Force,
and it is a critical contributor to our national security. If confirmed, I’ll be honored to have a role in
making it a success. I’d also like to acknowledge my grown up sons Scott and Eric, who have supported
me throughout my career. I’m very proud of them and of their wives Amy and Jennifer and of my five
grandchildren; in alphabetical order - Caroline, Mackenzie, Madison, Holden, and Jackson.