House Democrats call out Defense Secretary Hegseth after remarks about women in the military

A coalition comprising nearly 100 House Democrats has submitted a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, addressing his recent comments regarding women serving in the military. According to reporting by The 19^th, the initiative was spearheaded by two women veterans — Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania and Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire. During a global meeting with U.S. military leaders last month, Hegseth criticized DEI policies and suggested women may be excluded from combat roles if they fail to meet physical standards. Women make up about 21% of military personnel.