Backlash Follows Hegseth's Order To Rename Harvey Milk-Named Ship

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jun 06, 2025

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Backlash Erupts After Hegseth Orders Renaming of Harvey Milk-Named USNS Ship

Conservative commentator and Fox News host Pete Hegseth's order to rename the USNS Harvey Milk, a Navy ship named after the iconic gay rights activist, has sparked a furious backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates, Democrats, and even some Republicans. The move, announced quietly within the Navy, has ignited a firestorm of criticism and raised questions about the politicization of the military.

The USNS Harvey Milk, a Mobile Landing Platform, was commissioned in 2017 and named in honor of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, who was assassinated in 1978. His legacy as a champion for LGBTQ+ rights and equality is widely celebrated. Hegseth, currently serving as the Under Secretary of the Army, justified the decision (reportedly made without widespread consultation within the Department of Defense) citing unspecified "concerns" about the ship's namesake. However, no official statement detailing these concerns has been released publicly.

This lack of transparency has fueled the controversy, with many accusing Hegseth of erasing a significant figure in American history and undermining the progress made towards LGBTQ+ inclusion in the military. The decision comes at a time when the military is grappling with issues of diversity and inclusion, and many see this as a step backward.

<h3>The Outcry and Political Fallout</h3>

The announcement has been met with swift and widespread condemnation. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), a veteran and outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, released a scathing statement calling the decision "an appalling act of political cowardice." Numerous LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have also voiced their outrage, accusing Hegseth of pandering to a conservative base and demonstrating a lack of respect for the contributions of Harvey Milk.

Several prominent Republicans have also expressed their disapproval, highlighting the bipartisan nature of the concern. The quiet nature of the decision, bypassing typical channels and public debate, suggests a deliberate attempt to minimize the backlash—a strategy that has clearly backfired.

• Lack of Transparency: The absence of a clear, public explanation for the renaming fuels suspicion and anger.
• Political Motivation: Critics point to Hegseth's known conservative views as the primary driver behind the decision.
• Undermining Progress: The move is seen as a setback for LGBTQ+ inclusion within the military.

<h3>The Fight for Harvey Milk's Legacy</h3>

The controversy extends beyond the simple renaming of a ship. It's a fight to protect the legacy of Harvey Milk and ensure that his contribution to LGBTQ+ rights is not forgotten or diminished. Many are arguing that the name change constitutes an erasure of history, and a blatant disregard for the values of inclusivity and tolerance.

The legal ramifications of the decision remain unclear. While the Navy has the authority to rename its vessels, the lack of transparency and the perceived political motivation behind the move could open the door to legal challenges. It is anticipated that legal action may be taken by LGBTQ+ organizations and individuals seeking to overturn the decision.

<h3>What Happens Next?</h3>

The future of the USNS Harvey Milk is currently uncertain. While the order has been issued, the actual renaming process may face significant hurdles due to the intense public pressure. The situation underscores the growing tensions surrounding issues of diversity, inclusion, and political polarization in the United States. The controversy serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ equality and the importance of preserving historical figures who championed human rights. This developing story will continue to be updated as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for further developments.

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