Pentagon Fires Stars and Stripes Leaders Over Editorial Dispute

On Friday, the Pentagon terminated Erik Slavin, the editor-in-chief of Stars and Stripes, and publisher Max Lederer amid a dispute over editorial freedom. Slavin stated he was dismissed for “insubordination” after discussing disagreements with the Department of Defense during a CBS News interview.

The Pentagon had previously indicated a desire to shift Stars and Stripes' coverage away from what it termed “woke distractions.” Alongside Slavin, reporter Lara Korte was also fired for similar reasons. The dismissals occurred shortly after the newspaper reported on poor conditions for crew members aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, which had been deployed since before the Middle East war began in February.

This report drew criticism of President Donald Trump’s military actions. Lederer, who had announced his retirement effective September 30, cited fundamental differences in leadership philosophy with the Pentagon's plans for the publication.

The independence of Stars and Stripes has been increasingly threatened under Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who has been critical of the media.