US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth considers firing generals, redirecting Pentagon budget
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth listens to questions from members of the press during a bilateral meeting with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles at the Pentagon on Feb. 7, 2025 in Arlington, Virginia. (AFP Photo)
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is considering firing or removing generals and senior officers as early as this week, according to multiple U.S. and congressional officials.
A list has been circulated on Capitol Hill containing generals and senior officers who could be removed or fired, the officials said.
What did Hegseth say?
Hegseth, days before President Donald Trump nominated him to lead the Defense Department, said in November that “woke” officials needed to be uprooted from the Department of Defense (DOD).
“First of all, you’ve got to fire the chairman of the Joint Chiefs,” Hegseth said on the “Shawn Ryan Show.”
But any general that was involved — general, admiral, whatever — that was involved in any of the DEI woke s— has got to go. Either you’re in for warfighting, and that’s it. That’s the only litmus test we care about.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
Hegseth’s 1st day at Pentagon
However, when he started as Defense Secretary, Hegseth seemed to soften his stance regarding Gen. C.Q. Brown, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. On Jan. 27, Brown saluted Hegseth as his motorcade arrived, then the two exchanged pleasantries, and Hegseth expressed his intention to work with him.
“I’m standing with him right now,” Hegseth said, patting Brown on the shoulder. “I look forward to working with him.”
It remains unclear if Brown is on the list of potential firings.
What’s happening with Pentagon employees?
The list of officials also includes probationary DOD employees who could be terminated, along with requests to exempt specific offices and individuals from cuts.
Exemptions are being considered for mission-critical roles, as well as veteran and military spouse status.
What’s going on with budget?
In another development, Hegseth ordered 8% of the budget for fiscal year 2026 and the following years to be redirected to the president’s priorities.
The shift is expected to include funding for initiatives such as securing U.S. borders, building the Iron Dome for America, and eliminating DEI programs and government waste.
