Joe Biden Picks Lloyd Austin As First Black Defence Secretary Of US

Washington: President-elect Joe Biden has picked retired General Lloyd Austin, to be his defence secretary, sources familiar with the decision told news agency Reuters on Monday. Austin oversaw US forces in the Middle East under President Barack Obama.

The decision to appoint Austin, who would be the first Black US defence secretary, took all by surprise. Former top defence official Michele Flournoy was thought to be the top contender for the post.

The nomination of Austin, who was at the helm of the US Central Command under Obama, could be criticised by some progressive groups given his role in retirement on the board of a number of companies, including weapons maker Raytheon Technologies Corp, Reuters said.

Biden will take over as the 46th US President on January 20.