Former Air Force Secretary Criticizes Defense Leadership
Former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall has accused Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of politicizing the U.S. military. His comments add to the growing criticism of the Pentagon’s leadership, following Army Secretary Dan Driscoll’s resignation and scrutiny of senior personnel decisions.
Kendall stated, “I’ve never seen an attempt to politicize our military like the one being conducted by Pete Hegseth,” during an appearance on ABC News’ This Week. He warned that the impact is being felt throughout the military’s chain of command.
These remarks come in the wake of increasing questions about stability within the Pentagon. This is following Driscoll’s departure and reports of the White House reviewing potential replacements for Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg, claims strongly denied by Hegseth.
Newsweek contacted the Pentagon and the White House for comments.
Officers Fear Speaking Out
Kendall, who served as Air Force Secretary under former President Joe Biden, argued that Hegseth’s removal of senior officers and intervention in promotions has caused anxiety among military leaders. “He’s fired roughly 25 senior officers and is pulling people off promotion lists,” Kendall said. He warned that this atmosphere leads officers to be afraid to speak candidly.
“It’s causing fear and refusal, and in many cases, I believe Hegseth is not receiving good advice due to individuals being afraid to tell him things he doesn’t want to hear,” Kendall explained. He emphasized the long-term damage this situation could inflict on the military.
There have been many controversies regarding Hegseth’s reshaping of Pentagon leadership. This includes the exit of multiple generals, admirals, and senior civilian defense officials under his tenure.
Concerns Over Driscoll’s Departure
The resignation of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll marks one of the most significant Pentagon exits since Hegseth’s appointment. Reports from Reuters and the Wall Street Journal indicate friction between Driscoll and Hegseth over personnel decisions, contributing to broader disagreements regarding Pentagon leadership.
Criticism of Hegseth’s management style has crossed party lines. North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis, a Republican, urged President Donald Trump to appoint new leadership to empower military talent rather than diminish it. Tillis expressed these concerns on X.
Representative Don Bacon, a Nebraska Republican, and former Air Force brigadier general, similarly criticized Hegseth’s approach, suggesting that the firings were “not morally right nor wise,” indicating poor character.
Kendall’s criticism is among the most extensive from a former military official.
Midterm Elections Concerns
With November’s midterm elections approaching, Kendall highlighted political climate concerns. He insisted that military leaders have an obligation to challenge actions they believe are improper. “Officers, especially senior ones interacting with political leaders, need to tell the truth and resist morally wrong, unethical, or illegal actions,” Kendall asserted.
As the midterms approach, Kendall worries about weakened institutional checks within government. He expressed this concern by mentioning, “All our guardrails are gone.” Asked what he would do if he still served in Pentagon leadership, Kendall replied bluntly.
“I couldn’t serve this administration,” Kendall stated, underlining his disapproval.
Hegseth defended his personnel decisions, arguing that changes are vital for readiness improvements and implementing Trump’s agenda. He denied claims of internal turmoil, calling Feinberg “an incredible partner” who has his “100 percent full support.”