Recent discussions have stirred significant debate in the Senate regarding the nomination of Matthew Lohmeier, a former Space Force officer, for a high-ranking civilian role in the Air Force. Concerns have been raised about his previous political expressions on social media and his dismissal from command in 2021, as lawmakers scrutinize his eligibility for the position.
Matthew Lohmeier, nominated by former President Donald Trump for the role of under secretary of the Air Force, previously commanded the 11th Space Warning Squadron at Buckley Space Force Base in Colorado. His tenure ended abruptly in 2021 following a podcast appearance where he promoted his book, “Irresistible Revolution: Marxism’s Goal of Conquest and the Unmaking of the American Military.”
Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., expressed skepticism about Lohmeier’s capacity to serve impartially, citing his “troubling conduct in uniform” and “extreme partisanship.” Reed referenced a controversial post by Lohmeier on X from Oct. 19, 2024, suggesting potential reprisals against military leaders under a renewed Trump administration.
During the Senate hearing, Lohmeier defended his right to free expression, stating that his social media activity was conducted in a personal capacity after leaving the military. He clarified that his comments were not intended as retaliatory.
Further criticism came from Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, over Lohmeier’s characterization of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot as “a gov’t-led false flag and hoax” in an Aug. 9, 2024, post on X. Similarly, Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., challenged Lohmeier on his views regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, following his sharing of a paper titled: “Why the Ukraine Crisis is the West’s Fault” in a Feb. 9, 2024, post on X.
Lohmeier’s military career, which began in 2006 after graduating from the Air Force Academy, saw him serve as a pilot for the T-38 Talon and the F-15C Eagle before transferring to the Space Force in 2020.
Lohmeier has previously lodged complaints against the leadership at Buckley Space Force Base, alleging unethical conduct, but these were dismissed. Notably, his dismissal from command followed the promotion of Lt. Gen. Stephen Whiting, who made the decision, to a four-star general.
Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., questioned Lohmeier’s decision-making process, particularly why he did not pursue an Article 138 complaint after his initial grievances were dismissed. She expressed doubts about his ability to lead, given his past actions while in command.
In a public appearance during a Trump campaign event, Lohmeier suggested creating a task force to eliminate diversity initiatives in the military, a proposal Trump supported by nominating him for the Air Force role.
Despite the contentious discussions, Lohmeier assured senators that he harbors no intent for retribution and believes that service members would welcome his confirmation. “I love all people,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to serving faithfully if approved for the role.
