Pete Hegseth led hundreds of service members on a Pentagon run while wearing matching shirts reading "THIS IS WAR." The Defense Department released video of the event, and critics described the display as performative, citing tension with prior Trump administration statements about the confrontation with Iran. Hegseth later flew to Quantico to deliver his annual "State of the Force" address. Observers also noted his frequent public fitness posts and a previously mocked joint-exercise video with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Pete Hegseth Leads Pentagon Run in 'THIS IS WAR' Shirts — Critics Call It Performative
Photo Credit: Alex Wong/Getty Images
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth led hundreds of service members on an early-morning run around the Pentagon this week, with participants wearing matching shirts that read "THIS IS WAR." The Department of Defense released several video clips of the event, which drew sharp criticism from observers who described the display as performative.
The department posted two videos showing Hegseth running at the head of the pack outside the Pentagon, and a third clip captured the secretary—at times audibly short of breath—addressing personnel after the jog. Hegseth invoked a motto he first introduced at Quantico, framing expectations for leaders and units.
"Last year, when we gave a speech at Quantico—we launched the War Department golden rule: Do unto your formation that which you would have done unto your son or daughter's formation,"
He summarized the idea this way: "No games, no gimmicks, no low standards, and no excuses."
Flight to Quantico and the 'State of the Force'
After the run, Hegseth boarded a helicopter for the roughly 33-mile flight from the Pentagon to Quantico, where he delivered his annual "State of the Force" address.
Criticism and Context
Critics focused on the "THIS IS WAR" apparel, noting tensions between the slogan and past messaging from the Trump administration that has described its confrontation with Iran as something other than a declared war. Social-media reactions included skeptical comments such as:
"Thought we were trying to stay out of wars?"
"If that's War, you're probably losing it."
Observers also placed the run in the context of Hegseth's pattern of public fitness posts since assuming the military's top civilian role. The former Fox News weekend host has shared clips of spin-bike sessions, bench-pressing and even doing pull-ups in a tree with Dr. Oz. He and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. previously attracted ridicule for a joint push-up and pull-up clip branded "The Pete and Bobby Challenge."
What This Means
The episode underscores how public appearances by senior defense officials can quickly become symbolic flashpoints—especially when messaging about conflict and military posture clashes with political statements or public perception. Whether seen as morale-building or performative, the run prompted debate over tone, substance and priorities at the top of the Defense Department.
Help us improve.
