Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has intervened to halt or stall advancements for more than a dozen senior military officers spanning all four service branches, according to nine U.S. officials with direct knowledge of the situation.
The targeted officers are predominantly Black and female, with some officials suggesting the selections reflect concerns about their race, gender, or perceived alignment with Biden-era policies and personnel, according to those familiar with the promotion process.
The moves mark an aggressive use of Hegseth's authority over military personnel decisions since taking office. As the Pentagon's top civilian leader, the defense secretary maintains significant discretionary power over senior officer advancement, though such intervention in individual cases remains uncommon.
The blocked promotions come as Hegseth has signaled broader intentions to reshape military leadership and culture. His public statements have criticized diversity initiatives and suggested preference for officers he views as aligned with his vision for the armed forces.
Officials briefed on the situation declined to name specific officers or provide precise numbers, citing sensitivity around personnel matters. However, they indicated the delays have created uncertainty within the services about advancement prospects for officers fitting particular profiles.
The interventions have drawn attention from military insiders concerned about the precedent of selective promotion blocks based on demographic characteristics or ideological positions. Career advancement in the military has traditionally proceeded through established merit-based review processes involving military brass rather than direct secretarial interference in individual cases.
Hegseth's office did not respond to requests for comment on the scope or reasoning behind individual promotion holds. The defense secretary has previously stated his commitment to military readiness and selecting leaders based on capability.
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