Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has blocked the promotions of at least 40 senior officers to general and admiral ranks this year, with approximately half being women or members of minority groups. Rear Adm. Stephen D. Barnett, a Black officer, was denied promotion despite being the Navy's top choice to lead the command overseeing Navy bases at home and abroad, and successfully managing the aftermath of a fuel spill that sickened thousands in Hawaii.
His years-old remarks on the importance of diversity were flagged in a secret vetting process designed to identify "problem" senior leaders. Instead of Admiral Barnett, Mr. Hegseth selected a white officer who was the Navy leadership’s third choice. This systematic blocking of promotions, particularly for diverse candidates, signals a significant shift in Pentagon policy and leadership priorities, impacting the representation and advancement of women and minorities within the military's highest echelons.
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