Austin's nomination advancing through Congress

The Senate Armed Services Committee has voted to send the nomination of retired Army Gen. Lloyd Austin to the full Senate.

The committee approved Austin's nomination by voice vote. The full Senate could vote to confirm Austin as early as today.

Austin still requires a waiver from the full Congress to serve as defense secretary, though that matter is moving quickly through Congress as well.

The House is expected to pass the waiver today, while Austin is slated to have a closed-door meeting with the House Armed Services Committee.

The Senate, meanwhile, is also expected to act on the waiver today.