The Pentagon's Recently Formed 'Press Corps' Is a Complete Disaster — And It Will Not Benefit Hegseth

This week, the Pentagon briefing room witnessed an unusual spectacle as a group of pro-Trump social media personalities, including Jack Posobiec, Matt Gaetz, and Laura Loomer, assumed the role of journalists covering the U.S. Department of Defense.

While some members of this press corps may have genuine journalistic intentions, most are clearly aligned with former President Donald Trump and his political agenda. Gaetz, previously appointed by Trump as attorney general, exemplifies the type of loyalist expected to shield the former president rather than act independently. Similarly, figures like Loomer and Posobiec build careers by catering to pro-Trump audiences and avoiding criticism of the former president.

Trump has already challenged Pentagon traditions by appointing Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host known for his combative style, as defense secretary, now rebranded as secretary of war. Past defense leaders were respected national security professionals who tempered political impulses, but Hegseth has openly embraced aggressive actions, including endorsing controversial military strikes that Trump himself had hesitated to authorize.

Recent controversies surrounding Hegseth, including a military strike on survivors of a drug-trafficking boat and the Pentagon inspector generals SignalGate report, coincided with the arrival of this new MAGA-aligned press corps. Traditional journalists were barred from the building after refusing to sign a pledge enforcing Hegseths media rules, which effectively prohibited the pursuit of unapproved information. Even pro-Trump media outlets like Fox News and Newsmax declined to comply, leaving the space for younger online influencers and podcasters.

One such member, Cam Higby, questioned Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson about the purpose of the new press team, asking whether their role was truly journalistic or merely promotional. Wilson emphasized that the press corps should hold the administration accountable while also communicating Pentagon activities to the public, highlighting the advantage of reaching large online audiences directly rather than relying on traditional media channels.

Although this restructured press corps raises concerns about journalistic integrity and democratic principles, established media organizations such as The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post continue to report on Hegseths actions. The critical question moving forward is whether these new influencers will pursue independent reporting or simply reinforce Hegseths narrative.

Author: Riley Thompson