Restoration News has reported that Lieutenant General Jonathan Braga is reportedly being considered to lead the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). This potential appointment comes despite his record of implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies and celebrating intersex pride month.
According to Restoration News, Braga, who currently commands the U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC), is facing scrutiny for his ideological priorities. Critics argue that his focus on DEI may not align with JSOC's mission of selecting operators based solely on merit. This concern is further emphasized by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's stance that military leadership should prioritize capability over what he describes as "woke" policies.
In June 2024, Braga approved a policy directive within USASOC committing to fostering a workplace reflecting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. DEI was made a mandatory performance metric under this directive. Restoration News notes that during pride month, USASOC posted an intersex-inclusive pride flag on its official social media channels under Braga's command. Critics suggest such actions could distract from core warfighting readiness and merit-based assessments.
Braga also commissioned a gender-integration study within USASOC that described traditional protective male instincts as "benevolent sexism" rooted in "unconscious bias." The study recommended unconscious bias training in professional qualification courses. Restoration News shared that the study included testimonies highlighting challenges faced by women, such as suffering urinary tract infections during convoy missions. Opponents argue the study misrepresents fundamental physiological differences and introduces social ideology into critical combat training.
Restoration News is a policy-focused news outlet examining national security, cultural, and political developments through the lens of American sovereignty and institutional integrity. The publication emphasizes merit-based standards in public institutions and often critiques policies perceived as ideological overreach in areas like military readiness.
