Overview

• Matthew Lohmeier, President Trump's nominee for undersecretary of the Air Force, testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee on May 1, 2025.
• Lohmeier pledged to eliminate political distractions, restore a warrior ethos, and advocate for increased funding for the Air and Space Forces if confirmed.
• Democratic senators raised concerns about his past public statements, including criticism of DEI initiatives and alleged threats of retribution against officers with differing views.
• Lohmeier defended his past remarks as those of a private citizen and argued they should not disqualify him from a civilian leadership role.
• The Senate remains divided along party lines, with Republicans supporting Lohmeier’s nomination and Democrats questioning his suitability for the role.