Hegseth Emboldened by Firings, Consolidating Military Control
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly become “emboldened” and is consolidating control at the Pentagon following the removal of senior military officials, including Navy Secretary John Phelan and Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George. Phelan’s dismissal came shortly after he voiced concerns about a “land grab” by Hegseth and Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg, who were allegedly imposing rigid control over naval shipbuilding and submarine procurement. Despite some internal White House reservations, Hegseth’s position appears secured, with Pentagon and White House spokespeople highlighting his focus on restoring a “warrior ethos” and prioritizing “lethality and combat readiness.” This consolidation of power marks a turnaround for Hegseth, who has outlasted several colleagues despite earlier missteps.
John Q. Hosedrinker