Escalating Criticism of Pentagon Leadership

Former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall openly criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for attempting to politicize the U.S. military. This comes amid a turbulent week marked by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll’s resignation and intensifying scrutiny of senior personnel decisions.

Kendall expressed his concerns during an appearance on ABC News’ This Week, stating, “I’ve never seen an attempt to politicize our military like the one being conducted by Pete Hegseth.” He warned that the impacts were noticeable throughout the command structure.

These remarks followed rising concerns over stability within the Pentagon after Driscoll’s resignation and reports of the White House considering replacements for Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg—claims Hegseth strongly refuted.

Kendall said, “He’s fired 25, roughly, senior officers. He’s pulling people off of promotion lists. And that effect is rippling all the way down through the ranks.”

Officers Afraid to Speak

Under former President Joe Biden, Kendall served as Air Force Secretary. He criticized Hegseth’s removal of senior officers and involvement in promotions, arguing it created anxiety among military leaders. “Officers worry about speaking candidly,” Kendall noted, adding, “It’s causing people to refuse to tell him things he doesn’t want to hear.” He warned this could lead to long-term damage within the military.

During Hegseth’s tenure, several high-ranking officials, including former Joint Chiefs Chairman Charles Q. Brown Jr., Navy Chief Lisa Franchetti, and Army Chief of Staff Randy George, have either been fired or have left.

Impact of Driscoll’s Departure

Driscoll’s resignation is one of the most significant Pentagon exits since Hegseth assumed his role. Reports from Reuters and the Wall Street Journal highlighted friction with Hegseth over senior personnel decisions. These issues have fueled concerns about turnover amidst ongoing military operations against Iran.

Criticism of Hegseth’s management has extended beyond party lines. North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis, a Republican who supported Hegseth’s confirmation, urged President Donald Trump to seek new Pentagon leadership. Representative Don Bacon, a fellow Republican and former Air Force brigadier general, has also expressed disapproval of Hegseth’s handling of military personnel.

Warning Ahead of Midterms

Kendall raised alarm about the political environment leading up to the midterm elections, emphasizing the responsibility of military leaders to oppose improper actions. He stressed the need for senior officers to uphold integrity and communicate the truth to political leaders.

As the midterms approach, Kendall expressed concern over diminishing institutional checks within the government. He further remarked, “I couldn’t serve this administration,” reflecting his dissatisfaction with the current leadership.

Despite criticism, Hegseth defends his decisions, claiming changes are essential for enhancing readiness and implementing Trump’s agenda.