Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) confronted Secretary of Defense Pete Hegses on Sunday, emphasizing that the military relies on the contributions of women.
“This is, without a doubt, the most unqualified defense secretary in our nation’s history, and he’s questioned women’s capabilities,” Duckworth remarked, referencing a female ranger who has graduated from SEAL School, during an interview with Margaret Brennan.
“He seems to overlook the different standards applied to men of varying ages. The criteria for a 45-year-old man aren’t equivalent to those for an 18-year-old. So, it seems he hasn’t actively considered women’s military participation for quite some time,” she continued.
On Tuesday, Hegses argued that new proposed military fitness standards might restrict women from certain combat roles. Speaking to key military leaders, he introduced a directive aimed at ensuring that all combat positions adhere to “the highest male standards” for the physical fitness test.
“If that results in some individuals not qualifying for specific combat roles, that’s a reality,” Hegses stated, although he maintained that the army is still open to women enlisting.
“I wouldn’t want my son serving alongside women in combat units if they aren’t able to meet the same physical benchmarks as men,” he stated. “This is a matter of life and death. Meeting the standards is essential.”
Last week, House Democrats criticized Hegses and urged him to move away from the so-called “wokeness” policy at the Pentagon.
Representative Pete Aguilar (D-Calif) called Hegses’ remarks “shameful and confusing,” suggesting a lack of seriousness in his leadership.
“It’s challenging to engage with the troubling ideas articulated by our secretary and the policies he’s advocating,” Aguilar previously commented. “In fact, he’s likely the least qualified Secretary of Defense this country has ever had.”
The Pentagon has been contacted for a response.
