Defense Secretary Sparks Uproar by Amplifying Pastors Who Say Women Shouldn’t Vote

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ignited significant controversy after reposting a video on X (formerly Twitter) featuring pastors affiliated with the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC) who argued that women should not vote. The actions of a high-ranking government official promoting such views have provoked widespread concern and intense media scrutiny.

The Post and the Message

On August 8, 2025, Hegseth shared a nearly seven-minute CNN segment on X that spotlighted Doug Wilson, CREC co-founder, and other pastors from the same denomination. In that video, one pastor advocates repealing the right to vote for women, while another suggests households should vote collectively—often represented by the husband. A female congregant in the video adds that she “submits” to her husband. Hegseth accompanied his repost with the caption: “All of Christ for All of Life.” AP NewsThe GuardianThe Daily Beast

Swift Backlash

The response was immediate and forceful. Advocacy groups and religious leaders denounced the views as both fringe and deeply troubling. Doug Pagitt of Vote Common Good labeled the perspectives “very disturbing” and pointed out that they reflect only “small fringes of Christians.” The Guardian

Several media outlets highlighted the dissonance of promoting such viewpoints while serving as the nation’s top defense official. Critics also raised concerns about Hegseth’s prior statements opposing women in combat roles, noting patterns in his attitudes toward gender equality. The Daily BeastAP News

Context: A Pattern of Christian Nationalism

Hegseth’s affiliation with CREC and admiration for Christian nationalist teachings are long established. He has openly praised Wilson's ideology and regularly attends church services that align with those beliefs. WikipediaAP News

His nominating and confirmation as Secretary of Defense already spurred debate, with critics citing not only his extreme views but also allegations of misogyny and lapses in judgment. The GuardianPeople.com

Implications for Governance and Military Culture

The episode raises critical questions about the separation of personal religious beliefs and public duty, especially in roles that demand impartiality. Many Americans, including members of the military and civilian employees, worry about potential bias and erosion of inclusive principles within the Department of Defense.

Moreover, with women making up around 18% of the military, promoting sentiments that undermine their rights poses both morale and recruitment challenges. The Daily BeastMEAWW News

Conclusion

When the person overseeing the U.S. military amplifies views that undermine the constitutional rights of half the population, it stirs a crisis in public trust. Hegseth’s repost toggles between personal faith and public responsibility—and sends a jarring message about the values guiding America’s defense leadership.