WASHINGTON, D.C. — Nominees for key positions in the Trump administration are beginning to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

West Virginia U.S. Senators Joe Manchin and Shelley Moore Capito both voted Friday evening to confirm General James Mattis as Secretary of Defense and General John Kelly for secretary of Homeland Security.

Manchin on Mattis:

“Today I voted to confirm General James Mattis as the U.S. Department of Defense Secretary. As a former Governor, I understand how crucial it is for an executive leader to have his team in place, especially his security team, on day one of his administration. Secretary Mattis has a distinguished record of service to our nation and I know he will provide wise counsel and objective advice to the President on our nation’s security. As the Secretary of Defense, he will provide a scholar-warrior viewpoint to the Department of Defense’s top position as we continue to confront threats overseas. I look forward to working with him in a bipartisan manner to continue to protect all West Virginians and Americans.”

Capito on Mattis:

“In light of the very real threats we face from ISIS and other terrorist groups, we need a military leader like General Mattis who is uniquely qualified to lead the Department of Defense. As secretary, he will build on his lifelong service to our country, and I was pleased to vote for his confirmation today.”

Manchin on Kelly:

“Today I voted to confirm General John Kelly as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary. As a former Governor, I understand how crucial it is for an executive leader to have his team in place, especially his security team, on day one of his administration. Secretary Kelly has served our country proudly for much of his adult life and his leadership will be vital in continuing to coordinate the multiple missions and agencies within the Department of Homeland Security. I look forward to working with him in a bipartisan manner to continue to protect all West Virginians and Americans.”

Capito on Kelly:

“Secretary Kelly is a tested leader with decades of military service and a longstanding commitment to fight the growing threat of terrorism at home and abroad. I look forward to working with him to secure our homeland and keep Americans safe.”