Dec 8, 2024 Story by: Editor
WASHINGTON (AP) — Senior military leaders are grappling with the fallout of a list of “woke” officers compiled by the American Accountability Foundation, urging Pete Hegseth to dismiss them should he assume leadership of the Pentagon. The list includes 20 senior military figures, disproportionately women, who have promoted diversity initiatives.
The document has unsettled Pentagon officials, complicating ongoing discussions on how to address diversity under the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump. Those named were targeted for public statements, retweets, or participation in events supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Tom Jones, leader of the American Accountability Foundation, described those on the list as “pretty egregious” supporters of DEI policies. “The nominee has been pretty clear that that has no place in the military,” Jones said, referencing Hegseth’s stance against diversity programs.
Hegseth, a proponent of ending DEI initiatives, is battling for confirmation amid allegations of excessive drinking, sexual misconduct, and controversial views on women in combat. Despite these challenges, Trump has expressed strong support for Hegseth, declaring him a “WINNER” in a social media post.
Military officials have noted that DEI programs have been met with mixed reactions. Some service members argue these efforts increase workloads, while others see them as essential for aligning the military’s leadership and specialized roles with the nation’s diversity.
Former Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel warned of the adverse effects of targeting officers over diversity efforts. “You will drive people out,” he said, adding that such actions harm morale and organizational cohesion.
The list highlights a range of officers:
- A Navy officer was named for advocating diversity during a Women’s Equality Day speech.
- An Air Force colonel faced scrutiny for an opinion piece addressing racial blind spots.
- Others were cited for supporting LGBTQ, discussing DEI at panels, or expanding recruitment efforts at historically Black colleges.
A defense official, speaking anonymously, said senior leaders hope to provide context to the incoming administration after Trump’s inauguration. They aim to address concerns without undermining service members’ privacy.
The American Accountability Foundation’s letter to Hegseth emphasized purging “woke” ideology from the military, citing national security concerns. Jones aligned this effort with broader conservative goals to reshape federal governance under Project 2025, a Heritage Foundation initiative.
As the debate unfolds, concerns grow over the implications for morale, retention, and the military’s ability to reflect the diversity of the nation it serves. Source: Military
