The Defense Department is implementing a new policy requiring all personnel to coordinate interactions with Congress through the Pentagon’s central legislative affairs office. This move, outlined in an Oct. 15 memo obtained by Breaking Defense, could significantly restrict the flow of information from the department to Capitol Hill.
Centralized Control
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg directed all Defense Department personnel, excluding the inspector general’s office, to coordinate with the office of the assistant secretary of defense for legislative affairs for all engagements and communication with Congress and state elected officials.
Rationale
The memo states that the policy aims to ensure consistency and support for the department’s priorities in its partnership with Congress. It argues that unauthorized engagements with Congress may undermine department-wide objectives.
Scope
The directive applies to all interactions, including those outside the national capital region. It encompasses congressional reporting requirements, requests for information, drafting and technical assistance, and legislative correspondence.
Congressional Reaction
Rep. George Whitesides, D-Calif, expressed concern, stating, „Congress decides who Congress will talk to, and the continued efforts of the secretary to wall off the department is not consistent with past tradition.” A congressional aide suggested the policy could backfire, potentially hindering the timely flow of information needed for legislative decisions.
Pentagon’s Defense
Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell stated that the memo is a „pragmatic step” to internally review communication processes with Congress and improve accuracy and responsiveness, emphasizing that it does not change how Congress receives information.
Exemptions
The directive does not limit the authorities of the Pentagon’s comptroller or general counsel. Servicemembers and employees retain whistleblower protections and other rights to communicate with Congress.
Comprehensive Review
The Pentagon’s assistant secretary of legislative affairs is tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of the department’s interactions with Congress, expected within 90 days, to identify issues, inefficiencies, or misalignments and propose improvements.
