Full Breakdown
Brig. Gen. Thomas Siverts Promoted After Controversial Podcast Appearance
6/19/2026, 12:14:21 AM
Core Event: Senate Confirmation and Promotion
Marine Corps Colonel Thomas Siverts was confirmed by the U.S. Senate and promoted to brigadier general on June 10, 2024. The Senate voted unanimously after Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) lifted his hold, saying his concerns were resolved after reviewing Siverts’ March 2023 podcast interview and a letter that “unequivocally condemns antisemitism and racism.”
Background & Context: Podcast Appearance and Antisemitic Rhetoric
In March 2023, Colonel Siverts appeared on the Berm Pit Podcast, where co-host Matt Wakulik claimed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, named by President-elect Trump, deserved to be shot for supporting Israel. Scott Siverts asked Wakulik to rate Trump officials on “how many bullets I put in their head.” Wakulik replied “Six bullets,” adding “I’d have to put another one in there after I emptied the whole chamber.” Exchange framed pro-Israel support as treasonous.
Timeline of Key Developments
Key dates: March 2023 – Siverts’ podcast interview; September 2024 – Wakulik’s “six bullets” comment publicized; June 10 2024 – Senate unanimously confirms Siverts’ promotion; June 2024 – Pentagon Press Secretary Joel Valdez defends Siverts.
Data & Statistics: Alleged Disparities in Military Leadership
New York Times reporting says Hegseth has “fired or sidelined nearly three dozen senior leaders,” with “nearly 60 percent” Black or female.
Official Statements & Responses
Senator Wyden said his hold was lifted after reviewing podcast interview and Siverts’ letter condemning hate; Pentagon Press Secretary Joel Valdez said Siverts “does not share views of these hosts” and warned against attempts to smear reputation. A Marine Corps spokesperson confirmed promotion date.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics note Hegseth’s tenure has disproportionately affected Black and female officers, with the New York Times citing a 60 percent share among those sidelined. Advocacy groups label the “six bullets” remark incitement to violence and the podcast’s framing of pro-Israel support as treasonous.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Siverts’ letter to Wyden did not specifically address Wakulik’s “six bullets” comment, leaving his stance unclear. The source provides no evidence linking Hegseth’s personnel actions to cited statistics, noting only the New York Times report; the claim the podcast had no association with later hateful episodes remains unverified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ Wyden told Raw Story, "I condemn anyone who uses their platform to openly discuss murdering government officials, or to amplify antisemitism.” — Ron Wyden, U.S. Senator
- “Shame on those attempting to smear his name after writing this letter to a senator in good faith.” — Joel Valdez, Pentagon Press Secretary
- “When we go golfing this summer we’ll cheers to a couple cigars. A for effort to all the r----ds that tried hard to harm his career. You lost.” — Ron Wyden, U.S. Senator
- “six bullets” — Matt Wakulik, Berm Pit co-host
What's Next
Senator Wyden indicated he will meet colleagues for a golf outing this summer, as referenced in his statement. Congressional oversight committees may examine the Department of Defense’s promotion procedures and the influence of public rhetoric on military careers, while further reporting is expected on investigations into Hegseth’s alleged personnel actions.
