Former Air Force Secretary Criticizes Military Leadership Decisions

Frank Kendall, the former Air Force Secretary, recently accused Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of politicizing the U.S. military. This statement adds to the rising criticism of Pentagon leadership amid recent disruptions. This includes Army Secretary Dan Driscoll’s resignation and increasing scrutiny over senior personnel decisions.

During an interview on ABC News’ This Week, Kendall stated he had “never seen an attempt to politicize our military like the one being conducted by Pete Hegseth”. He warned of the ensuing repercussions throughout the military chain of command.

“The actions are impacting our officers and creating fear. It’s hampering their ability to speak up,” Kendall said. “Long-term serious damage is being done to our military.”

Officers Afraid to Speak

Kendall pointed out that Hegseth has removed around 25 senior officers and interfered in promotions. As a result, military leaders feel anxious.

This atmosphere discourages officers from offering honest recommendations to senior leadership. Kendall believes that advisors often hesitate to provide truthful feedback to Hegseth.

Kendall’s comments follow a series of controversies regarding Hegseth’s restructuring of Pentagon leadership. Many high-ranking officials have been dismissed or left, including former Joint Chiefs Chairman Charles Q. Brown Jr., Navy Chief Lisa Franchetti, and Army Chief of Staff Randy George.

Driscoll Exit Fuels Concerns

The departure of Driscoll seems to be one of the most significant exits at the Pentagon since Hegseth assumed office. Reports from Reuters and the Wall Street Journal indicated that Driscoll’s resignation followed disagreements with Hegseth over personnel decisions.

These disagreements underline growing concerns about leadership within the Pentagon. Criticism against Hegseth’s management has crossed party lines, with figures like Republican Senator Thom Tillis urging for new leadership.

Representative Don Bacon, also from the Republican Party, echoed such sentiments. A former Air Force brigadier general, he described Hegseth’s personnel removals as “not morally right nor wise.” Bacon emphasized that dismissals without cause indicate a lack of character.

Warning Before Midterms

Kendall voiced his worries about the political environment as midterm elections approach. He stressed the importance of military leaders challenging actions they deem improper.

“Our officers, especially seniors, must stand up against morally wrong, unethical, or illegal actions,” Kendall declared.

Expressing concern about weakened institutional checks, Kendall stated bluntly that he could not serve within the current administration.

Hegseth, on his part, has defended the personnel changes. He maintains that it is necessary for improving military readiness and aligns with implementing the Trump administration’s agenda. He described Steve Feinberg, his deputy, as an “incredible partner” with his “100 percent full support.”