Hegseth accuses media of treason in pugnacious annual address
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth took aim at the U.S. media during a speech at a Marine Corps base in Virginia on Wednesday, saying: "Our so-called press makes Iranian state media look reasonable." Why it matters: Hegseth cast news outlets as a threat to U.S. troops, escalating his attacks on journalists over reporting based on classified information . What he's saying: In his second annual "State…
During a speech at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed his criticism at the U.S. media, accusing them of treason. Hegseth stated that the media, often likened to state media from Iran, is unreasonable and poses a threat to U.S. troops. He condemned certain journalists for their partisan activism and for intentionally damaging the troops and their mission, labeling their actions as "fundamentally anti-American" and "treason."
Hegseth emphasized that the media's leaks about munition stockpiles have endangered the lives of U.S. service members. While acknowledging the importance of a free press, Hegseth criticized the media for their reporting on dwindling supplies of key munitions during the ongoing war with Iran. The speech also touched on Hegseth's cultural and political priorities, as he pushed for a return to a more traditional view of meritocracy within the military, rejecting DEI and gender equity efforts.
Hegseth confirmed plans for a 20% reduction in generals and admirals in the force, while rejecting them as a purge. He also announced a new Autonomous Warfare Command, an initiative involving Elon Musk, and a nationwide competition to choose the next U.S. military base.
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