Brian Lehrer: A Daily Politics Podcast Veterans Group Leader: Hegseth Misses Military Reason For Diversity
Nov 11, 2025
Paul Rieckhoff, founder of Independent Veterans of America and a prominent military advocate, shares his insights on recent shifts in the U.S. military. He critiques Pete Hegseth's push for a 'Department of War,' emphasizing that 'Department of Defense' reflects necessary diplomacy. Rieckhoff argues that diversity, including varied backgrounds and experiences, enhances military effectiveness. He also discusses changing recruitment trends and the importance of inclusion, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized veterans.
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War Versus Defense Framing
- Pete Hegseth frames the military as a force built to wage war decisively rather than primarily to defend.
- Paul Rieckhoff rejects that narrowing, arguing defense, diplomacy, and other tools must share responsibility for national power.
Tough-Guy Messaging Is Performative
- Hegseth links cultural-change moves to removing 'woke' policies and asserting macho credibility.
- Rieckhoff and callers view this as performative and potentially harmful to military professionalism and unity.
Vietnam Vet Warns About Loyalty Cult
- A Vietnam veteran caller said he might normally back renaming Defense to War but rejected Hegseth's phony macho motives.
- He warned that firings and loyalty demands undermine the oath to defend the Constitution.