Secretary Hegseth Specifies DOD’s Focus on Warfighting Over Climate Initiatives
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that the DOD focuses on warfighting and training, rejecting climate change initiatives he termed as ‘climate change crap.’ In reaction to planned cuts to climate programs, he echoed concerns regarding military readiness and confirmed collaboration with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to eliminate wasteful spending, potentially saving $80 million.
On Sunday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth articulated a clear stance against climate change initiatives within the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). He asserted that the DOD does not prioritize “climate change crap,” but instead directs its focus on critical areas such as warfighting and training. This statement came in response to concerns regarding recent cuts to climate-related programs at the Pentagon, as highlighted in a CNN article by Haley Britzky.
Britzky noted that the DOD and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are planning to eliminate climate programs, which experts contend are vital to military readiness. The commentary draws attention to the potential risks such cuts pose to both troops and military operations, with additional inquiries into military readiness being directed to the Pentagon by CNN.
In a follow-up to Britzky’s post, Pentagon Spokesman John Ullyot criticized “climate zealotry,” reinforcing that it does not align with the DOD’s mission. Hegseth echoed Ullyot’s sentiments, emphasizing that the department’s focus remains steadfastly on training and operational readiness, rather than climate change initiatives.
The DOGE, under the guidance of billionaire Elon Musk, aims to eliminate wasteful expenditures within the Department of Defense. According to spokesperson Sean Parnell, recent findings identified spending in various diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs that are not aligned with military objectives. Key examples of this spending include over $1.9 million for Air Force DEI transformations and $6 million allocated to the University of Montana.
Parnell stressed the importance of redirecting focus back to the core functions of the military, dismissing the identified expenditures as distractions. He expressed confidence that these evaluations could result in approximately $80 million in savings by addressing redundant spending across government departments, including the DOD.
Hegseth affirmed his department’s collaboration with DOGE in scrutinizing spending, appreciating that many personnel involved are veterans committed to identifying inefficiencies. He concluded firmly, stressing the intention to eliminate what he perceives as remnants of previous priorities, such as diversity initiatives and climate change agendas, in favor of core military missions.
In conclusion, Secretary Hegseth’s remarks underscore the DOD’s commitment to prioritizing warfighting and training over climate change initiatives. The planned budget cuts to climate-related programs have raised concerns among experts regarding military readiness. As the DOD collaborates with DOGE to identify and eliminate wasteful spending, it aims to streamline operations and address efficiency within federal departments. Hegseth’s statements reflect an ongoing effort to refocus the DOD’s mission in alignment with its primary goals.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
