Summary
The Pentagon has introduced new rules on how military leaders can interact with the public and media. These guidelines are part of an effort to control information and manage public appearances. The changes involve restrictions on speaking engagements and stronger vetting processes for media interactions.
Key Facts
- The Defense Secretary issued a memo that limits when and how military leaders engage with the public.
- New rules require reporters to agree not to gather unauthorized information to keep their press access.
- The memo outlines what is and isn't allowed in public engagements, focusing on professionalism and broad audiences.
- The Pentagon aims to prevent appearances that might generate negative news.
- Engagements can include organizations that disagree with the Department's views if they are professional.
- The Department of War now vets all external engagements to ensure alignment with administrative values.
- Recently, some press offices were reassigned from mainstream organizations to conservative outlets.
- Military speakers have been withdrawn from major events due to these new guidelines.
