According to US officials, a top military leader is on the verge of being fired or removed by Hegseth. Admiral Franchetti has held the position of chief of naval operations since November 2023. The president has the power to dismiss any general or senior officer from their current post and reassign them if they decline to resign voluntarily. Three- and four-star generals or admirals only hold their ranks while in specific senior leadership roles, and being forced out of a position could potentially end their careers. Hegseth had previously criticized both officers before assuming the role of defense secretary during the Trump administration.
In a November appearance on the “Shawn Ryan Show,” Hegseth called for the removal of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs and any other general or admiral involved in what he referred to as “DEI woke s—.” He emphasized the importance of focusing on warfighting as the primary criterion for military leaders. In his book, “The War on Warriors,” Hegseth targeted Franchetti for her lack of combat experience and belittled her educational background, while also taking aim at Brown for prioritizing woke ideologies over military standards.
Hegseth directed the Pentagon to identify $50 billion in cuts to fund military priorities under the Trump administration. In his book, he cast doubt on Brown’s qualifications to be the top general, questioning whether race played a significant role in his promotion. Brown, who became the first Black Air Force chief of staff under the Trump administration, has been an advocate for addressing racial injustice in the military and promoting diversity. He has emphasized the importance of race-based diversity initiatives and inclusion efforts within the armed forces.
Depending on where you were raised, your entrance into our military could mark the most diverse experience in your life. “To be effective leaders, we must be well-versed in the backgrounds and have an understanding of those we are privileged to lead,” he emphasized. “This is where the value of our programs lies. Through them, we gain insight into their cultural heritage, history, and personal experiences, fostering a strong personal connection.”
During his confirmation hearing in January, Hegseth skillfully navigated a question posed by Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., regarding the potential removal of senior officers such as Brown from their positions. He responded, “Senator, each senior officer will be scrutinized based on meritocracy, effectiveness, and commitment to upholding lawful directives.”
A photo captured Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s debut at the Pentagon, where he was warmly welcomed by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. C.Q. Brown on January 27, 2025, in Arlington, Virginia. Noteworthy progress was observed in Brown’s relationship with Hegseth following a cordial interaction with former President Trump at the Army-Navy football game in December. At the game, Hegseth briefly met with Brown, who engaged in a 20-minute conversation with then-Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about football.
On his first official day at the Pentagon, Hegseth’s demeanor towards Brown appeared to soften. As Brown saluted Hegseth upon his motorcade’s arrival, they exchanged pleasantries and engaged with reporters. When questioned about Brown’s potential termination, Hegseth stood by him, expressing his eagerness to collaborate. “I stand beside him at this moment,” Hegseth affirmed, offering a reassuring pat on Brown’s shoulder. “I am looking forward to our collaboration.”
