Hegseth, serving as a senior defense official, has made controversial personnel decisions including firing Gen. Randy George and other senior officers, as well as blocking promotions of Black and female officers. He fired Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George in April amid concerns about militarization, following the firing of more than a dozen high-ranking officers. He blocked promotions of four qualified Army officers to Brigadier General, including two Black officers and two women. Congressional military experts have condemned these actions as ideologically motivated removals that undermine military readiness. However, Hegseth has publicly expressed strong support and praise for U.S. service members and the military.