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Pentagon Undergoes Shakeup, DEI Programs Scrutinized

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  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 9:44 GMT by Fox News
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WASHINGTON D.C. - February 17, 2026 - The Pentagon is currently experiencing a significant internal shift, marked by the removal of key personnel and a comprehensive review of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. These changes are being spearheaded by Pete Hegseth, the Fox News host recently appointed as a civilian advisor to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, raising questions about the influence of external voices on military leadership and the direction of Pentagon policy.

The most recent development, confirmed by multiple sources to Fox News Digital, is the removal of Lt. Col. Brandon Lessler, the Army's chief of public affairs. Lessler was reportedly informed of the decision on Monday and received minimal explanation. This action, sources claim, is not an isolated incident but rather the opening salvo in a broader effort to realign the Department of Defense with what Hegseth and his allies perceive as core values, free from perceived "ideological agendas."

While the Pentagon has remained tight-lipped, those familiar with the internal dynamics describe a concerted push to identify and remove individuals believed to be prioritizing DEI initiatives to the detriment of traditional military objectives. Several other senior officials have reportedly been asked to resign or have been removed, suggesting a systematic overhaul is underway. Last week saw initial reports of these personnel changes, hinting at the scale of the current restructuring.

Hegseth's appointment in January ignited controversy, particularly amongst Democrats who questioned the appropriateness of placing a politically vocal media personality in a position of influence over military affairs. Critics argue that his background as a conservative commentator inevitably biases his perspective and risks politicizing the armed forces. However, proponents maintain that Hegseth brings a fresh perspective and a commitment to refocusing the military on its primary mission.

This restructuring arrives at a time of heightened scrutiny concerning the military's adherence to political neutrality. Concerns have been voiced regarding the integration of DEI principles into training and recruitment, with some arguing that such programs have become divisive and detract from combat readiness. The debate centers on whether DEI initiatives enhance unit cohesion and broaden the talent pool or introduce unnecessary ideological considerations into a traditionally apolitical institution.

Secretary Austin, seemingly responding to these concerns, has initiated a comprehensive review of all DEI programs within the military. This review is expected to examine the effectiveness of these programs, their alignment with military objectives, and their potential impact on unit morale and performance. The outcome of this review could result in significant alterations to existing DEI policies and a renewed emphasis on traditional military values.

"This isn't about being against diversity," one source connected to the review process stated, "It's about ensuring that diversity is pursued in a way that strengthens the military, not weakens it. The focus needs to be on merit, skill, and unit cohesion, not on checking boxes."

The situation is complicated by the ongoing geopolitical landscape. With increasing global tensions and a rapidly evolving security environment, the need for a strong and focused military is paramount. The question facing the Pentagon is whether this ideological overhaul will enhance or hinder its ability to meet these challenges. Critics fear that purging experienced personnel and dismantling DEI programs will create instability and disrupt crucial initiatives. Supporters, conversely, believe it will restore a clear sense of purpose and prioritize military effectiveness.

The long-term implications of these changes remain to be seen. The removal of Lt. Col. Lessler, coupled with the broader personnel shakeup and the review of DEI programs, signals a clear shift in priorities within the Pentagon. Whether this shift will ultimately prove beneficial to the military and the nation remains a subject of intense debate.