In a significant move, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Monday a directive aimed at reducing the number of four-star general officers in the active-duty military by 20%. This decision comes as part of the Trump administration's ongoing efforts to implement deep cuts within the military structure, which officials claim will enhance operational efficiency. However, critics voice concerns that these reductions may lead to a more politicized military force.
In addition to the cuts within the active-duty ranks, Hegseth has also instructed the National Guard to decrease its top positions by 20%. Furthermore, he mandated a further 10% reduction in general and flag officers across all military branches, encompassing any officer ranked one-star or higher, or those holding equivalent Navy ranks. These cuts come on the heels of numerous dismissals of high-ranking officers by both President Trump and Secretary Hegseth since January, including the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. CQ Brown Jr..
Notably, the recent firings have disproportionately affected female officers, with both of the only women serving as four-star officers among those dismissed. This trend raises questions about the administration's commitment to diversity in military leadership. Hegseth previously stated that these eliminations reflect the president's desire to surround himself with individuals who align with his vision for national security.
Rep. Seth Moulton, a Democrat from Massachusetts and a veteran of the Marine Corps, has criticized Hegseth's actions, suggesting they are an attempt to politicize the military. Moulton expressed concern that the Secretary is creating a framework to dismiss generals who do not share his or the president's views. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a military that operates under constitutional orders rather than political motivations, stating that without this distinction, democracy is compromised.
Adding to the ongoing turmoil within the Pentagon, Hegseth has recently replaced or reassigned several close advisers, effectively narrowing his inner circle. His management has come under scrutiny from both sides of the political aisle regarding his handling of sensitive information and the use of the Signal messaging app for official communications.
Currently, there are about 800 general officers serving in the U.S. military, with only 44 of them holding four-star rank. The Army is home to the majority of these general officers, numbering 219, which includes eight four-star generals. The number of general officer positions is legally mandated, making any cuts a significant shift in military structure.
Typically, Congress receives advance notification regarding such cuts; however, this time lawmakers were given only a brief alert. Reports indicate that the Pentagon is facing mounting pressure to reduce both spending and personnel, as part of broader federal budget cuts championed by President Trump and his ally, Elon Musk, through the Department of Government Efficiency.
Last week, Hegseth announced a comprehensive transformation plan for the Army aimed at creating a leaner, more lethal force. This initiative includes merging or closing various headquarters, eliminating outdated vehicles and aircraft, and potentially cutting up to 1,000 headquarters staff at the Pentagon to reallocate personnel to active units.
Additionally, the Army confirmed plans for a military parade to coincide with Trump's birthday in June, celebrating the service's 250th anniversary, an event expected to incur significant costs amounting to tens of millions of dollars.
This article is based on contributions from Associated Press writers Lisa Mascaro and Lolita C. Baldor.
