In a significant move, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has decided to revoke security protections and clearance for Gen. Mark Milley, the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This decision follows directives for a comprehensive review by the Pentagon’s inspector general, focusing on Milley’s conduct during his tenure as the nation's top military officer. This development has stirred considerable debate within defense circles and beyond regarding its implications for military and civilian oversight.
The inspector general will conduct an in-depth inquiry into Milley’s actions, particularly those perceived as undermining the chain of command and challenging President Donald Trump’s directives regarding military use. According to Pentagon spokesman John Ullyot, this will include examining whether it is justified to reconsider Milley’s military rank determination. This assessment is expected to set significant precedents for accountability within the armed forces.
Gen. Milley’s relationship with former President Trump was tumultuous and marked by several high-profile disagreements. Milley notably resisted Trump's interest in deploying military forces to quell domestic protests following George Floyd's death, reflecting broader tensions about the military's role in civil matters. In 2021, Milley faced criticism for making independent calls to Chinese counterparts, which Trump labeled as treasonous. Milley defended these interactions, asserting they were within his responsibilities.
These controversies continued until Milley’s retirement, which witnessed his vociferous reaffirmation of military allegiance to the U.S. Constitution over any single individual. His assertion against dictatorial allegiance reflected a staunch stance on democratic principles, further fueling debates over civilian-military relations in a politically divided nation.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, President Joe Biden issued a preemptive pardon to Milley towards the end of his presidency. This pardon could potentially shield Milley from the results of the inspector general's investigation. Milley expressed gratitude for Biden's action, emphasizing a desire to avoid retributive battles aimed at perceived past grievances.
Joe Kasper, Hegseth’s chief of staff, justified the security clearance and protective detail revocation, emphasizing the need for accountability and critiquing actions perceived as undermining national security. The move signifies a robust stance from the Defense Department to safeguard hierarchical integrity under the past administration.
Moreover, the revocation of Milley’s security measures trails previous instances where protections were removed for officials like Mike Pompeo and John Bolton, facing external threats post their services. These measures underscore the intricate balancing act between internal accountability and addressing external threats faced by prominent U.S. figures.
Amid these developments, Gen. Milley experienced more symbolic repercussions, with his Army Chief of Staff portrait removed from the Pentagon, stirring visible reminders of his divisive tenure. These portraits, sponsored not by taxpayers but as a gesture of honor by the U.S. Army Association, have traditionally recognized the contributions of senior officers, reflecting their historical and cultural significance.
This evolving situation with Gen. Milley highlights broader themes about military accountability, the role of civilian oversight, and the enduring impact of policy decisions from Trump’s administration. As stakeholders watch closely, the outcomes of this review could set a pivotal precedent for future military and civilian relations.