AXIOS (Rebecca Falconer) - 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 of the Force" address at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia, Hegseth accused some members of the media of "treason." - While a free press is important, he said "partisan activism that intentionally smears the troops and the historic mission that they're undertaking is fundamentally anti-American. It's sick. It's a national betrayal. It's…
How did Pete Hegseth describe his efforts regarding DEI and gender equity within the department?
Hegseth highlighted his efforts to reverse DEI and gender equity initiatives in favor of "meritocracy," stating the department will no longer be "woke" or "weak," but will consist of "just warriors."
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What new military initiatives and competitions were announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth?
Hegseth announced the creation of a new Autonomous Warfare Command, which will involve Elon Musk to study the future of war, and a nationwide competition to host the next U.S. military base.
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What specific military personnel reductions did Pete Hegseth confirm during his speech?
Hegseth confirmed plans for a 20% reduction in generals and admirals across the force, though he rejected descriptions of these cuts as a "purge."
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Why does Pete Hegseth claim that media reporting poses a direct threat to U.S. troops?
Hegseth stated that media reporting on movements and bases reveals information to the enemy and that journalists put lives at risk when they lie about munition stockpiles.
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What did Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth accuse certain members of the media of during his "State of the Force" address at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia?
Hegseth accused some members of the media of "treason," stating that partisan activism that intentionally smears the troops and their mission is "fundamentally anti-American," "sick," and a "national betrayal."
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