Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is reportedly considering the removal of several high-ranking military officials associated with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives implemented during the previous administration. This potential shake-up aims to eliminate what Hegseth describes as “woke” policies within the U.S. military.
Among those potentially affected is General CQ Brown, the current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Before his nomination, Hegseth expressed his intent to dismiss leaders involved in DEI programs, stating, “First of all, you’ve got to fire the chairman of the Joint Chiefs… But any general… that was involved in any of the DEI woke s*** has got to go.”
Another official reportedly under consideration for removal is Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the first woman to serve as Chief of Naval Operations. Her potential dismissal could result in the absence of female four-star officers in the U.S. military. In his 2024 book, Hegseth commented on such historic appointments, writing, “If naval operations suffer, at least we can hold our heads high… Because at least we have another first! The first female member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff—hooray.”
In preparation for these changes, a team from the Department of Government Efficiency has begun collaborating with Pentagon representatives to manage office logistics and coordinate budget assessments. Updated figures on proposed funding adjustments are expected to be released in the coming days as part of ongoing discussions on restructuring defense operations.
These developments reflect a broader initiative by the current administration to refocus military priorities and address concerns about the influence of DEI programs on operational effectiveness.