Trump fires Gen. CQ Brown, triggering Pentagon leadership overhaul

President Donald Trump has dismissed Air Force General CQ Brown Jr. from his role as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, a decision viewed as part of a broader effort to remove military leaders advocating for diversity and equity. Brown, only the second Black general to hold the position, served for 16 months amid significant global conflicts, including the war in Ukraine. Trump's announcement on social media expressed gratitude for Brown's service and introduced retired Lt. Gen. Dan Caine as his successor. The move has raised concerns over the implications for military leadership and the ongoing debate around diversity initiatives within the armed forces. Trump's administration is also planning to cut a significant number of civilian positions within the Pentagon, further reshaping military leadership. Critics note that Brown's previous support for Black Lives Matter and diversity initiatives may have influenced his ouster, highlighting the administration's stance against 'wokeism' in the military.