The Department of Defense (DOD) has ordered a temporary pause on its social media pages, effective until a new Defense Secretary is confirmed and gives further direction. The move is aimed at ensuring that all communications are aligned with the administration’s goals, with a focus on “warfighting and lethality.”
The pause does not apply to social media posts related to US military operations and deployments to protect the southern border. All social media posts must reflect an emphasis on these areas, and will be reviewed by uniformed and civilian public affairs officers to ensure compliance.
The DOD will continue to release press releases and post on its websites, but new social media posts will be suspended until further notice. This move is seen as a reaction to criticism of the military’s earlier posts on “woke” priorities, including recruitment ads that highlighted diverse backgrounds and experiences.
In the past, the US Army released an animated recruitment ad featuring a story about an Army corporal with two mothers, and the US Space Force posted on social media during Pride Month, highlighting the contributions of LGBTQ+ service members. Critics had expressed concern that these ads undermined confidence in the military’s strength and identity.
The DOD’s move is seen as a reversal of trends set by previous administrations, which prioritized diverse representation and inclusion. The US State Department recently adopted a “one flag policy” allowing only the American flag to be flown at US buildings, with exceptions for the POW/MIA flag and Wrongful Detainees Flag. President Trump also ordered the closure of diversity, equity and inclusion offices, and placed all DEI staff on paid administrative leave.
