Nomination of the Day: Obama Selects an Openly Gay Man to Lead the Army

We've come quite a long way since Don't Ask Don't Tell.

President Obama announced his nomination for the next Secretary of the Army Sept. 18 and it's Eric Fanning, an openly gay man.

If confirmed, Fanning would take over for current Secretary John McHugh who will soon leave the post.

Reuters has more details on the appointment:

Fanning is currently serving as acting Army undersecretary, and previously worked as Air Force undersecretary and chief of staff to U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter. His nomination to the post must still be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

"Eric brings many years of proven experience and exceptional leadership to this new role," Obama said in a statement. "I am confident he will help lead America's soldiers with distinction."

Carter called Fanning's nomination "an excellent choice" by Obama and said he hoped for a quick Senate confirmation.

A quick confirmation might not be in store if history is any indication. President Obama has had more nominations blocked by Senate filibuster threat than any other president.