Hegseth revokes promotion for Navy admiral who approved drag shows
By Riley Ceder
Jul 14, 2025, 04:26 PM
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth withdrew a Navy admiral’s nomination to lead the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet — the Navy’s largest overseas force — amid reports of drag shows taking place under his command seven years ago, the Pentagon confirmed.
Rear Adm. Michael “Buzz” Donnelly was named as a candidate for promotion to vice admiral and commander of the 7th Fleet on June 18 by President Donald Trump. But amid a recent report by conservative news outlet The Daily Wire about Donnelly allowing drag performances under his command aboard the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan, the Pentagon has moved on from the admiral.
During World War II, cross dress events were not only sanctioned by the Army, but celebrated as a boon for morale.
“The Secretary is thankful for his continued service and wishes him luck in his next position,” a senior defense official told Military Times in an emailed statement. “The Department will open up nominations for the 7th fleet commander.”
The Pentagon did not comment on whether the report served as a catalyst for the withdrawal of the nomination.
https://www.militarytimes.com/home/left-column/2025/07/14/hegseth-revokes-promotion-for-navy-admiral-who-approved-drag-shows/
