Senator Susan Collins expressed disappointment with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s removal of senior military officers, continuing a pattern of criticism from the Maine Republican over the Pentagon chief’s personnel decisions. Collins said she was “very disappointed to see such a capable and committed leader depart” after Hegseth fired Navy Secretary John Phelan in April 2026.
Phelan’s dismissal marked the latest in a series of high-profile removals under Hegseth’s leadership. In early April, Hegseth ousted Army Chief of Staff General Randy George, according to CNN and other outlets. The Pentagon announced George’s departure without providing a detailed explanation, though sources cited tensions between Hegseth and Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll.
Hegseth’s actions extend beyond direct firings. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has taken steps to block or delay promotions for more than a dozen Black and female senior military officers, NBC News reported in April 2026. The New York Times confirmed that four Army officers on track to become one-star generals were removed from a promotion list, according to NPR. Hegseth has publicly accused the military of awarding promotions based on diversity rather than merit, though critics argue the removals undermine merit-based advancement.
Collins’ concern reflects broader bipartisan alarm over Hegseth’s personnel moves. The House Armed Services Committee adopted a measure in June 2026 requiring the Pentagon to inform Congress why senior military officers were fired or dismissed, according to The Hill. Republican Senator Thom Tillis also voiced concerns, describing Hegseth’s actions as showing “paranoia” regarding military leadership, Notus reported in June.
The removals have occurred during an active conflict. The U.S. was engaged in military operations against Iran when Hegseth fired Army Chief of Staff George, a timing that drew additional scrutiny. The military shake-up has raised questions about decision-making at the Pentagon and the rationale behind the dismissals, with lawmakers requesting more detailed explanations from the Defense Department.
Sources
- Bangor Daily News — Collins’ statement expressing disappointment about Phelan’s firing and his work on shipbuilding
- CNN — Hegseth ousting Army Chief of Staff Randy George and two other generals in April 2026
- NBC News — Hegseth intervened in military promotions for more than a dozen Black and female senior officers
- The New York Times — Hegseth striking four Army officers from one-star promotion list
- The Hill — House Armed Services Committee measure requiring Pentagon notification of officer dismissals
- Newsweek — Pentagon firings under Hegseth drawing bipartisan concern in June 2026
- Notus — Senator Thom Tillis describing Hegseth’s actions as showing paranoia
