The Trump transition team is blocking retired Gen. James Mattis from testifying at the House Armed Services Committee on Thursday about his need for a waiver to serve as the defense secretary, according to a top Democrat.

Minority Whip Steny Hoyer told reporters on Wednesday that the two leaders of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, and Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., are upset that the transition team is not allowing the former four-star to appear before the committee.