(Scypre.com) – As Pete Hegseth campaigns for his nomination to lead the Department of Defense, his potential appointment has ignited controversy, with a conservative watchdog group pushing for a dramatic shift in military leadership. The American Accountability Foundation (AAF) has submitted a letter to Hegseth, urging him to dismiss a group of senior military officers they accuse of advancing what they term “woke” ideologies, such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
In a document obtained by Fox News Digital, the AAF listed 20 high-ranking military officials, including eight women, whom they claim have prioritized progressive values over national security. The group alleges these officers’ focus on diversity initiatives undermines the military’s readiness to address global threats.
“The woke takeover of the military is a major threat to our national security,” AAF President Thomas Jones wrote in the letter. He emphasized that the U.S. military cannot afford distractions from leftist ideology amid rising global tensions involving nations like Iran, Russia, and China. “Those who were responsible for these policies being instituted in the first place must be dismissed,” Jones added.
The AAF also took to social media to express its stance, posting on X, “Wokeness has no place in the military. DEI in the military is going to get people killed. STOP IT NOW BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE.”
The term “woke” has become a flashpoint in political discourse, typically referring to progressive stances on issues like race and gender. The AAF’s list of targeted officers includes those who have publicly supported DEI initiatives or spoken on diversity’s role in organizational success.
Among those named is Air Force Col. Ben Jonsson, who, in a 2020 op-ed, urged his white colleagues to confront racial bias. Navy Vice Admiral Jeffrey Hughes, who addressed a DEI summit in 2022, was also listed for advocating diversity to attract exceptional talent.
Other officers criticized by the AAF include Air Force Maj. Gen. Elizabeth Arledge, noted for sharing social media posts discussing whiteness in organizational culture, and Navy Vice Admiral Shoshana Chatfield, who once declared, “Our diversity is our strength,” in a 2015 speech about gender representation in leadership.
Hegseth, a former Minnesota National Guard officer with service in Iraq and Afghanistan, has aligned himself with former President Donald Trump’s vision of eliminating DEI programs in the military. He has consistently argued that focusing on diversity detracts from meritocracy and combat preparedness.
“If confirmed, I will work tirelessly to ensure our Pentagon returns to focusing on the mission of defending America—not appeasing the woke mob,” Hegseth told reporters.
However, his nomination is not without challenges. Reports suggest Trump may consider Florida Governor Ron DeSantis as an alternative for the role, a move that would reflect growing scrutiny of Hegseth’s polarizing approach. Hegseth dismissed the rumors, vowing to remain committed to the fight. “As long as Donald Trump wants me in this fight, I’ll be standing right here,” he declared.
While the AAF’s campaign resonates with some conservative voices, others warn of the potential repercussions. Former Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel cautioned against the list’s implications, stating, “When military members see people singled out, they’ll focus on their survival, not the mission.”
An anonymous defense official expressed concern about the impact on morale and cohesion, emphasizing that such public targeting could deter officers from candid discussions on critical issues.
The debate over DEI and its role in the military reflects broader cultural and political tensions within the United States. As Hegseth’s nomination hangs in the balance, it underscores the evolving priorities and challenges facing the nation’s armed forces.
Whether or not Hegseth secures the position, the controversy surrounding this issue is likely to continue shaping discourse on military leadership and national defense strategies.