Opinion | Chuck Hagel: The Risk of Dragging Politics into the Military
As a former secretary of defense and U.S.senator, I have always believed a secretary of defense had two main responsibilities: one, the defense and security of our nation, and two, supporting the men and women in the Department of Defense who ensure it.Both of these tasks depend on maintaining the strength of our military.
For two and a half centuries, the U.S.military’s fundamental power has been anchored in its history of apolitical professionalism— a power solidified by the belief in and allegiance to our Constitution and the strength of our people.
Our military always been made up of people from all walks of life, and has led American society in ensuring equal rights for all like few other institutions in our country.The armed services were desegregated in 1948, for example, years before the Supreme Court’s landmark Brown decision required the same for schools.Political independence and ethics are the bedrock of our military.
Today, I am concerned that both are in danger.If we begin to compromise those standards by politicizing the Department of Defense, the character of the military could change inexorably, putting its very effectiveness at risk.Among my many concerns is the way that President-elect Donald Trump appears to be seeking to interfere with the Senate confirmation process for cabinet members.
All presidents-elect have the constitutional authority to form their new governments with the advice and consent of the Senate.Mr.
Trump has said instead that he wants to pursue “recess appointments,” in which nominees are pushed through without background checks and public hearings.For Pete Hegseth, Mr.
Trump’s choice to lead the Pentagon, to be an effective leader, he, like the other nominees, should have a full and transparent confirmation process.I am also alarmed by reports that Mr.Trump may seek to establish a “warrior board” of retired military personnel that would evaluate and determine the future of three- and four-star generals a...