Defense Secretary Hegseth Has Fired 24 Generals and Commanders Since 2025

U.S. The dismissals have occurred without stated performance-related reasons. Approximately 60% of those affected are Black or female, in line with the administration's stated opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The most recent dismissal involved Gen Randy George, the army chief of staff, who was ousted last month.

The Guardian reported that George was removed after he refused to strike four officers—two Black men and two women—from a list of prospective promotions.

The series of firings began in February 2025 with the termination of General CQ Brown as chairman of the joint chiefs of staff. Brown, who is Black and a former air force commander, was replaced by Dan Caine, a retired three-star general who was promoted to four stars for the role.

Some observers stated that Caine lacks qualifications for the position. Among the female officers removed was Lisa Franchetti, an admiral who served as chief of naval operations and was the first woman on the joint chiefs of staff.

Hegseth replied, "Of course not." He added that previous leadership focused on race and gender in ways the administration views as unhealthy.

“Members on this committee and the previous leadership of this department were focused on height, social engineering, race and gender in ways that we think were unhealthy.”

Insiders told The Guardian that Hegseth is increasingly isolated within the Pentagon and relies on a small group including his wife Jennifer, his brother Phil appointed as a senior adviser, attorney Tim Parlatore, and Ricky Buria, a former marine. Day-to-day operations are overseen by Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg, who manages a department with about 2.1 million military personnel and 770,000 civilian employees.

Hegseth has prioritized changes to the Pentagon's chaplain services, consistent with his stated Christian beliefs.

Retired army major-general Paul Eaton stated that the firings align with plans in Project 2025, a policy blueprint from the Heritage Foundation influencing administration policies. Eaton said the actions could damage senior leadership cohesion and hinder U.S. military operations, including efforts against Iran.

Former army colonel Kevin Carroll expressed concerns about the long-term effects on military ethics, citing statements from senior leaders. Misgivings have also been raised about Dan Caine's ability to resist certain presidential directives, compared to previous chairman Gen Mark Milley.