Pentagon Pulls Officials from Aspen Security Forum

The Pentagon, led by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, has withdrawn about a dozen senior military and civilian officials—including the Secretary of the Navy and commanders of major U.S. military commands—from the 2025 Aspen Security Forum. Pentagon spokespersons cited a misalignment of values, specifically accusing the forum of promoting 'the evil of globalism, disdain for our great country, and hatred for the President of the United States.' The decision was also linked to the Aspen Institute's perceived left-wing bias and inclusion of former officials critical of the current administration. The pullout marks a break from the forum’s tradition of bipartisan participation by top defense leaders. The Aspen Institute describes itself as nonpartisan and committed to fostering dialogue on national security issues. This move underscores escalating tensions between the Department of Defense and influential policy think tanks.