Caine Denies Trump's MAGA Hat Claim at Confirmation Hearing

During his Senate confirmation hearing, retired Lt. Gen. Dan Caine, President Trump's nominee for chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, denied ever wearing a 'Make America Great Again' hat, contradicting Trump's claims about a 2018 meeting in Iraq. Caine stated, 'I have never worn any political merchandise,' affirming his commitment to providing apolitical advice as a military leader. Trump has repeatedly recounted a story where Caine allegedly declared he would 'kill for' the president while donning a MAGA hat, but Caine argued that Trump was mistaken and may have been referring to someone else. The discussion around Caine's political neutrality is significant, especially following Trump's dismissal of former Chairman Gen. Charles Q. Brown amid partisan tensions within the military. Caine pledged to offer candid military advice to the president, regardless of differing opinions. His confirmation is viewed as a pivotal moment in addressing political influences in military leadership.