Opinion - Hegseth must stop using the government to promote his own religion

The Pentagon stirred controversy after Sec. of Defense Pete Hegseth led a reclassification of religious affiliations that initially labeled some groups (notably the LDS church) as non‑Christian before backtracking.
Hegseth also hosted monthly Pentagon devotionals that reportedly pressured attendance and used explicitly Christian language and prayers, raising concerns about mixing personal faith with official duties.
Critics say lumping many denominations together undermines chaplains’ ability to counsel and threatens religious liberty, prompting calls for the Pentagon to restore detailed faith listings or for Congress to intervene.