The race to replace outgoing Army Secretary Dan Driscoll has put MAGA in an uncomfortable spot. Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) has emerged as a reported shortlist candidate, according to reporter Nick Sortor, who cited two U.S. officials. The problem: Mast once volunteered with the Israel Defense Forces — and a growing number of America First voices say that disqualifies him from leading the United States Army.
"Nobody who has worn a foreign military uniform should be leading our Army," the sentiment circulating in MAGA circles goes. Sortor himself, who broke the story, was sharply critical of the prospect. The backlash has been swift among America First commentators who draw a hard line between U.S. military loyalty and service to any foreign nation's armed forces — ally or not.
Mast's IDF connection is not a minor footnote. In 2015 he participated in a civilian volunteer program with the IDF, and more controversially, he wore an IDF uniform on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives following the October 7 attacks — a gesture that drew fierce criticism even from some on the right. Mast has defended the volunteer stint as a service to an ally, but critics argue the U.S. Army Secretary must be unambiguously American in allegiance and service record.
Mast is not the only name in the mix. Sean Parnell — the Pentagon's chief spokesman, decorated former Army Ranger, and bestselling author of Outlaw Platoon — has been floated by sources close to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as a leading contender. Parnell's profile fits the Hegseth mold: combat veteran, media-savvy, America First in orientation. His path to confirmation, however, may face hurdles in the Senate.
Rep. Derrick Anderson (R-VA), a former Army Special Forces officer, has also been identified by DoW officials as under consideration, according to AF Post. Anderson's combat credentials and congressional profile make him a natural fit for the role.
The vacancy is not a minor housekeeping matter. With Driscoll's departure, both the Army Secretary and Army Chief of Staff positions are simultaneously open — while U.S. forces remain engaged in active operations across West Asia. Whoever Hegseth and Trump select will face Senate confirmation and immediate operational demands.
The debate over Mast reflects a broader tension inside the America First movement: between staunch support for Israel and the principle that U.S. military leadership must answer to one flag only.
There is NO room in our military leadership for people who have already sworn an oath of alliegiance to another country. ESPECIALLY a country who interferes so intimately with US politics and policy.
No way in hell should this ever pass muster.
Why not just dismiss the brass and let the IDF take over?
“Special forces officer and green beret” that’s totally redundant but maybe an Air Force officer doesn’t realize it.
Since the author flew for JSOC for years, he does realize. It was a mistake. Thanks for pointing it out. It's been fixed.