Trump Nominates Controversial Ex-Space Force Colonel Matthew Lohmeier as Air Force Undersecretary

Donald Trump nominates Matthew Lohmeier, a former Space Force lieutenant colonel dismissed for criticizing military diversity programs, as undersecretary of the Air Force.

On Friday, Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate Matthew Lohmeier for the position of undersecretary of the Air Force.

Lohmeier, a former lieutenant colonel in the Space Force, gained attention after being removed from his command because of his outspoken criticisms regarding military diversity programs, as well as what he described as the infiltration of leftist and Marxist ideologies within the armed services.

Controversial Perspectives

In May 2021, while serving as the commander of the 11th Space Warning Squadron at Buckley Air Force Base in Colorado, Lohmeier self-published a book titled Irresistible Revolution: Marxism’s Goal of Conquest and the Unmaking of the American Military.

This controversial work sparked further public engagement when he appeared on a podcast, where he lambasted diversity initiatives, critical race theory, and Marxism.

Lohmeier claimed these ideologies could undermine the military’s effectiveness and posed significant threats to American values.

Concerns about his leadership abilities were voiced by Lieutenant General Stephen Whiting, who then led the Space Operations Command.

Reports indicate that following Lohmeier’s remarks, Whiting made the decision to relieve him of his duties.

Trump’s Support and Investigations

In his announcement, Trump praised Lohmeier’s extensive background, which includes experience as a fighter pilot, squadron leader, and his education from the Air Force Academy.

Trump stated that Lohmeier’s role would be pivotal in countering what he referred to as “woke” policies that he believes have adversely affected the military.

This aligns with Trump’s previous nomination of Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host, for a leadership role within the Pentagon.

It’s also worth noting that an investigation into Lohmeier’s comments was initiated by Lieutenant General Whiting to assess whether his public statements constituted inappropriate partisan political activity.

This investigation escalated to the Air Force’s Office of Inspector General.

After Lohmeier concluded his active duty in September 2021, an Air Force representative confirmed the inquiry was closed upon his voluntary departure from service.

Current Role and Advocacy

Currently, Lohmeier is known as a public speaker and private consultant, focusing on matters surrounding Marxist ideology, critical race theory, and enhancing military culture, while championing the preservation of American liberties.

He also serves as executive vice president at Stand Together Against Racism and Radicalism in the Services (STARRS)—a veterans’ organization opposing what it views as Marxist collectivism and critical race theory, claiming these concepts threaten unit cohesion.

Additionally, STARRS critiques what it sees as excessive political correctness and equity measures that rely on racial or gender quotas.

This coverage includes new insights into the investigation concerning Lohmeier’s remarks and their implications within the military context.

Source: Militarytimes