Pete Hegseth calls for end to ‘woke’ culture in Military as shutdown looms
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Image Credit: Eric Lee/The New York Times
As Washington faces yet another looming government shutdown, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is doubling down on his mission to reshape the U.S. military. In a fiery speech at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Hegseth outlined sweeping reforms that he says will restore a “warrior ethos”, but critics warn his hardline approach could further politicize the armed forces.
What Did Hegseth Say About Diversity and Military Standards?
Hegseth declared the end of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, calling them a distraction from combat readiness. He pledged that combat roles would meet only the “highest male standard” for fitness tests, a move he argues will restore toughness but that opponents see as exclusionary.
He also called for drill sergeants to have the authority to “put their hands on recruits” to motivate them, a statement that sparked both applause and concern across the ranks.
Did Hegseth Really Tell Generals to Resign?
Yes. In one of the most striking moments of his speech, Hegseth told senior military leaders who disagreed with his vision to “do the honorable thing and resign.” He criticized past commanders, including retired Generals Mark Milley and Frank McKenzie, accusing them of embracing policies that weakened the military.
Instead, he praised figures like Admiral Stockdale and General Patton as models for the leadership he wants to restore.
Trump’s Backing: Dangerous Cities as “Training Grounds”
President Donald Trump, who joined Hegseth at Quantico, offered his own controversial idea: using “dangerous cities as training grounds” for U.S. troops and the National Guard. Pointing to Chicago, Trump argued that urban environments could provide live scenarios for preparing soldiers.
He also floated the idea of making the military “larger”, citing improved recruitment under his leadership and suggesting that America now has the “pick of the litter” when it comes to service members.
How Does the Government Shutdown Tie Into This?
All of this is unfolding as Congress faces a midnight deadline to avoid a shutdown. Republicans need Democratic support to pass a stopgap funding bill, but negotiations remain stalled.
Previous shutdowns have delayed food inspections, canceled immigration hearings, and disrupted paychecks for federal workers, raising questions about how another closure might affect military operations at a time when Hegseth is pushing aggressive reforms.
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Overhauling Equal Opportunity and Inspector General Programs
Hegseth also announced a major overhaul of the Pentagon’s Equal Opportunity office and the Inspector General system, saying both had been “weaponized” by anonymous complaints and partisan agendas.
“No more frivolous complaints, no more endless waiting, no more walking on eggshells,” Hegseth said, arguing that strong commanders must not be undermined by bureaucratic processes.
He insisted that racism and sexual harassment remain illegal under military law but said the system should stop enabling what he described as “smearing reputations” through false claims.
Why Is Pete Hegseth Controversial?
A longtime Fox News personality turned Defense Secretary, Hegseth has built a reputation as a hardline conservative voice. His stance against transgender service members, COVID-19 vaccine mandates, and diversity programs has drawn both praise and backlash.
Supporters argue he is restoring toughness to a weakened institution, while critics warn that his reforms risk alienating soldiers and undermining morale.
What’s Next for the Military Under Pete Hegseth?
Hegseth’s speech suggests more changes are coming. He framed his mission as a return to discipline and combat readiness, even if it means more shakeups in leadership. “The sooner we have the right people, the sooner we can advance the right policies,” he declared.
But with the government on the brink of shutdown and political tensions high, the question remains: Can Hegseth’s vision survive both the bureaucracy and the battlefield of American politics?
FAQ
Who is Pete Hegseth and why is he in the spotlight?
Pete Hegseth is the U.S. Secretary of Defense, known for his push to end “woke” culture in the military. His recent speech at Quantico laid out sweeping reforms.
What did Hegseth say about diversity in the military?
He vowed to eliminate diversity programs and set fitness standards based on the “highest male standard,” sparking both praise and criticism.
Did Hegseth tell generals to resign?
Yes. He urged officers who disagree with his reforms to “do the honorable thing and resign.”
What did Trump say about dangerous cities?
Trump suggested using U.S. cities like Chicago as training grounds for troops, a move that raised eyebrows nationwide.
How does the shutdown affect this debate?
A government shutdown could disrupt military pay and operations just as Hegseth pushes his reforms, raising concerns over timing and execution.