So, the acting defense secretary is recused from matters involving one of the biggest defense contractors. This is an interesting difference with Mattis gone. [1/2]
[2/2] Previously, he had a system in place that alerted Mattis to Boeing-related matters, even if other lower-level people actually took on the issues. [See: seattletimes.com/business/patri…] Now, there's no one above Shanahan to ultimately make decisions involving Boeing. 
Conflicts happen and can be dealt with, to be sure. This just changes the dynamics of how his particular conflicts are being handled, even if DOD is acting like nothing has changed.
