Pentagon Shake-Up Sparks Fury: Hegseth Given Deadline Over Stars and Stripes Move

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News (2 / 1) 20.08.2026 23:04 / Julia

Publisher’s Exit Raises Stakes

The scrutiny intensified after longtime publisher Max Lederer announced on Aug. 18 he will retire, citing fundamental disagreements with Pentagon plans for the publication. Senators warned Lederer’s departure makes clarity about control even more urgent.

Independence Under Siege?

The letter also noted recent changes: an earlier Pentagon overhaul to refocus coverage and the April removal of independent ombudsman Jacqueline Smith, who later sued the Defense Department alleging her dismissal was retaliatory. Warren and Blumenthal argued Stars and Stripes’ cherished editorial independence must be protected.