Trump Pushes Military Role in Domestic Affairs, Hegseth Declares End to ‘Woke’ Culture

President Donald Trump on Tuesday proposed using U.S. cities as training grounds for the armed forces, warning of an “invasion from within.” Speaking at Marine Corps Base Quantico before a hastily summoned gathering of top military leaders, Trump called for a more muscular domestic role for the military.

He was joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who declared an end to what he termed “woke” policies in the armed forces and unveiled new directives, including uniform physical fitness standards for men and women.

“The purposes of America’s military is not to protect anyone’s feelings. It’s to protect our republic,” Trump said. “We’re under invasion from within — no different than a foreign enemy but more difficult in many ways because they don’t wear uniforms.”

Hegseth criticized race- and gender-based promotions, called on officers who oppose his approach to resign, and announced a review of rules on hazing, toxic leadership and disciplinary procedures. He also vowed to ensure combat positions maintain “the highest male standard” for physical fitness.

The unusual gathering, which drew generals and admirals from around the world, highlighted how the Trump administration is attempting to reshape Pentagon culture while deploying military resources for domestic priorities, including crime and unrest in Democratic-led cities.

The remarks drew sharp criticism. Sen. Jack Reed, the Senate Armed Services Committee’s top Democrat, called the event “an expensive, dangerous dereliction of leadership,” accusing the administration of demanding military leaders conform to political ideology.

Trump has previously tested the limits of the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts the military’s domestic role, by deploying troops to Los Angeles and threatening similar actions in Chicago and Portland.

While some Republicans, including Sen. Joni Ernst, defended tougher standards for combat roles, veterans’ advocates accused Hegseth of inflaming culture wars at the expense of readiness.