Story perspectives

Defense Chief's 'Fat Generals' Remark Sparks Controversy

10/2/2025

Summary

Story summary

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth criticized "fat generals" and diversity initiatives, urging dissenters to resign.
California Governor Gavin Newsom mocked Trump's weight in the backlash.
Trump echoed Hegseth, calling cities "training grounds" for civil-unrest actions; civil rights groups warn this could violate the Posse Comitatus Act.
Critics, including veterans' groups, warn of militarization.
Fact-checkers call Trump's readiness and foreign-policy claims misleading.

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Story summary

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth criticized "fat generals" and diversity initiatives, urging dissenters to resign.
California Governor Gavin Newsom mocked Trump's weight in the backlash.
Trump echoed Hegseth, calling cities "training grounds" for civil-unrest actions; civil rights groups warn this could violate the Posse Comitatus Act.
Critics, including veterans' groups, warn of militarization.
Fact-checkers call Trump's readiness and foreign-policy claims misleading.