WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Armed Services Committee, today issued the following statement regarding the announcement that President-elect Trump has named former Defense Intelligence Agency director and retired Army Lt. General Michael T. Flynn, a Rhode Island native, as his national security adviser:

“General Flynn served honorably throughout his 33-year military career. 

“I respect him and deeply admire his family’s legacy of military service.  It is pretty remarkable to have two brothers rise to the rank of General like Mike and Charlie Flynn. 

“I do not agree with General Flynn on every issue.  I have concerns about some of the statements he made in the heat of the campaign. 

“Now, in becoming National Security Advisor, General Flynn is taking on a very different and challenging new civilian role.  He is familiar with the complex set of security challenges we face.  And President-elect Trump does not have a wealth of experience in this arena. 

“It’s incumbent on any National Security Advisor to provide unbiased and fact-based advice.  I hope the Trump Administration will begin to detail its plans to advance America’s national security interests.”