U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth traveled to Texas to visit Texas A&M University, meet with state officials, and tour defense contractors while outlining a shift in military policy focused on merit and industrial power, according to local and national reports.
During a speech to the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets, Hegseth described the state as a hub for American manufacturing. He pointed to a visit with defense contractor Sarconic Technologies in Austin, where large-class autonomous vessels and drones are built, calling the region part of the “arsenal of freedom.” Hegseth stated that the military requires “lethal leaders” with a “warrior ethos” rather than what he termed globalist seminars or land acknowledgements, adding that he chose to visit Texas A&M to find future warfighters.
Shifting focus to military recruitment, Hegseth told the cadets that the Department of Defense—referred to by him and the Trump administration as the Department of War—now operates entirely on merit. He stated that diversity, equity, and inclusion offices and quotas have been abolished, describing the armed forces as “colorblind, gender neutral and merit based.” During these remarks, Hegseth used an anti-transgender slur while discussing military training, prompting a slow-building wave of hoots, hollers, and applause from the Corps of Cadets.
Reporting highlights that Hegseth’s speech in Texas aligns with broader administrative actions regarding transgender service members. The Defense Department has moved to remove transgender troops under a ban pursued by President Donald Trump’s administration, though federal appeals courts have temporarily limited discharges while legal challenges continue. It was also noted that Hegseth previously used similar phrasing during a campaign rally in Iowa while appearing alongside U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn.
Did You Know? Pete Hegseth is a 2003 graduate of Princeton University, an Ivy League institution, despite using his platform at Texas A&M to criticize and denounce Ivy League schools.
Political Meetings and College Football Appearance
Following his address to the cadets, Hegseth met with Texas Governor Greg Abbott on the sidelines at Kyle Field. Hegseth was both cheered and booed by fans when shown on the stadium video board during an early season Southeastern Conference football game between Texas A&M and the University of Kentucky. The game concluded with Kentucky defeating ninth-ranked Texas A&M in a 31-21 upset.
Local sports observers noted lighthearted references following the game regarding sports curses, following previous comments from U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz concerning local sports teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Pete Hegseth call the defense sector during his Texas visit?
According to the source material, Hegseth referred to Texas building the “arsenal of freedom” through autonomous vessels and drones.
What changes did Hegseth announce regarding military recruitment?
Hegseth stated that diversity, equity, and inclusion offices and quotas have been abolished, making the armed forces entirely colorblind, gender-neutral, and merit-based.
Where did Hegseth meet Governor Greg Abbott?
The two met on the sidelines at Kyle Field during a football game between Texas A&M and the University of Kentucky.
How will these ongoing changes to military personnel policies and recruitment tours influence public debate surrounding the armed forces?
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