The path for Gov. Murphy’s pick to become Adjutant General is different than any other member of the new cabinet. Col. Jamal Beale must be confirmed by both the New Jersey State Senate and the United States Senate.
Beale’s path to become the first minority to head the New Jersey National Guard starts in Trenton, where he must first be confirmed by the State Senate. Before that happens, he’ll need sign off from the two Senators from Monmouth County: Vin Gopal (D-Long Branch) and Declan O’Scanlon (R-Little Silver). There is no indication of any opposition to Beale’s nomination.
Next, a request is sent to the U.S. Department of Defense, who must then agree to Murphy’s plan to promote Beale from Colonel to the rank of Brigadier General. After that, Beale must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
As Governor, Murphy today became the Commander in Chief of the New Jersey National Guard. Typically, the Defense Department and the Senate accept the recommendations of the Governor, although there have been snags in the past.