Slate Daily Feed Political Gabfest | Fat Generals
Oct 2, 2025
Juliette Kayyem, a homeland security expert and former government official, joins hosts to discuss a dramatic Quantico event featuring Hegseth and Trump. They analyze its implications for military loyalty and civilian control. The conversation shifts to the ongoing government shutdown, exploring its impact on federal workers and possible long-term effects on policy. Kayyem also addresses the dangers of hybrid war tactics from Russia, highlighting recent drone incidents over Europe and the complexities of international responses.
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Quantico Was A Theatrical Misfire
- The Quantico event was a staged show of fealty that misread a military audience trained in leadership and mission focus.
- John Dickerson argues the speech was self-referential and failed standard motivational techniques for generals.
Military Being Recast As Domestic Force
- The Hegseth-Trump presentation aimed to convert the military toward domestic law-enforcement and a masculine combat image.
- Juliette Kayyem warns that the rhetoric bends the military toward being a tool for domestic political aims.
Fitness Rules Mask A Policy Shift
- Hegseth moved to reinstate stricter combat-eligibility standards that will make it harder for women to qualify.
- Kayyem points out the policy shift effectively narrows roles under the guise of fitness standards.