Ashley Moody lands key appointment to Senate Armed Services Committee

Barely more than a year after she joined the U.S. Senate, Ashley Moody is being elevated to one of the most prominent panels in that chamber.

Moody was selected to join the Senate Committee on Armed Services this week. The panel’s Chair, Mississippi Republican Roger Wicker, said that given Florida’s commitment to the military, it was a natural fit for Moody to join the Committee.

“Florida has a significant contribution to our military and Sen. Moody brings a wealth of experience to this body’s critical work, and her addition comes at a consequential moment for our national defense,” Wicker said. “I look forward to working alongside her as we address a pivotal year for military budgeting, modernization, and industrial base expansion.”

The Committee oversees expenditures and operations for multiple military institutions such as aeronautical and space activities, defense elements and military research and development, among others. The Committee has existed in various incarnations since 1816.

Florida’s military bona fides are extensive. The Sunshine State is home to more than 20 military installations. Several key command posts, including Central Command, Southern Command and Special Operations Command, are all headquartered in Florida.

Many service members also stay in Florida when their service concludes. It’s estimated that 1.5 million U.S. military veterans reside in Florida.

“It is an honor and a privilege to join the United States Senate Committee on Armed Services. Florida has a deep and respected military culture, and as a member of a military family, every issue that comes before the Armed Services Committee is a personal one to me,” Moody said in a news release.

“I promise to be a voice of reason for our service members, Florida’s many military installations, and act in the best interest of our nation at all times.”

Moody has had experience addressing military issues before. She oversaw the Military and Veterans Assistance Program in Florida when she was Attorney General before being appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis to the Senate.

Moody serves on four other Senate Committees.