Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth accused members of the U.S. media of treason during his second annual "State of the Force" address at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia. Speaking on Wednesday, Hegseth described news outlets that report on classified information as a direct threat to American troops, stating that such reporting is "fundamentally anti-American" and a "national betrayal."
In a pointed critique, Hegseth argued that revealing military movements and bases exposes them to enemies, while false reporting on munition stockpiles puts lives at risk. He told the audience, "It's your movements and bases that they reveal to the enemy." The comments escalate his ongoing attacks on journalists, particularly regarding reports on dwindling supplies of key munitions amid the war with Iran, which have drawn criticism from President Trump and his team. Hegseth has previously taken steps to restrict media access to the Pentagon.
Beyond his rhetoric, Hegseth confirmed a plan to reduce the number of generals and admirals across the force by 20%. He rejected characterizations of these cuts as a purge, instead framing them as an accomplishment. "As usual, what the media levels as an accusation, I wear as an accomplishment," he said. The Secretary also highlighted efforts to reverse diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within the Department of Defense in favor of what he described as meritocracy.
The speech included several substantive policy announcements. Hegseth revealed the creation of a new Autonomous Warfare Command, an initiative designed to study the future of war that will involve Elon Musk. Additionally, he announced a nationwide competition to determine which location will host the next U.S. military base.
During the address, Hegseth emphasized the shift away from what he called "woke" departmental practices. He stated, "We are no longer the woke department or the weak department," and listed specific groups he claimed are excluded under the new meritocratic standards. The speech maintained a focus on culture-war themes while delivering structural changes to the military's leadership and operational capabilities.
Hegseth's remarks were delivered to an audience at the Marine Corps base, where he outlined his vision for a force focused on warrior ethos. The announcement of the Autonomous Warfare Command marks a significant step in integrating advanced technology into military strategy, with Elon Musk's involvement signaling a partnership between government and private sector innovation in defense research. The planned reduction in senior military ranks aims to streamline command structures, a move Hegseth defended as necessary for modernization rather than political retribution.