Defense Secretary Austin Defends Women in Combat, Criticizes Hegseth's Views
Lloyd Austin, in a West Point address, emphasizes the capabilities of women in combat roles and warns against regressive policies under the incoming administration.
- Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin strongly endorsed women serving in combat roles during a speech at West Point, citing their bravery and contributions in Iraq and Afghanistan.
- Austin's remarks counter comments by Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump's nominee for Defense Secretary, who opposes women in combat and has called it ineffective and complicated.
- Hegseth's nomination faces uncertainty in the Senate due to past allegations of misconduct and criticism of his stance on diversity in the military.
- Austin highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusion in strengthening the military, arguing that excluding qualified individuals weakens the armed forces.
- The speech also urged cadets to uphold their duty to defend the Constitution, referencing concerns about potential challenges to military principles under the next administration.
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