Hegseth Accused of Blocking Officers’ Promotions Over Online FindingsHegseth’s Promotion Purge Targets Officers for Diversity WorkHegseth Faces Claims Over Senior Officer Promotion Decisions
On November 9, 2026, military officials said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s office used internet searches and new criteria to block promotions for senior officers, disproportionately affecting women and people of color.On November 9, 2026, military officials said Pete Hegseth’s office used internet searches to block senior officers’ promotions, disproportionately affecting women and people of color.On November 9, 2026, military officials accused Pete Hegseth’s office of using online searches to block promotions, while the Pentagon said he is pursuing merit-based leadership and combat readiness.