Pentagon Threatens Scouting America With Loss of Military Support Over Name Change and Girls
Defense Secretary Hegseth demands organization restore Boy Scouts name and return to traditional values
The threat marks an escalation of conservative criticism against the 114-year-old youth organization, which rebranded from Boy Scouts of America to Scouting America in 2025 after opening its doors to girls in 2019.
The Pentagon has maintained a close relationship with the Scouts dating back decades, providing support for jamborees, leadership training, and various programs. Military bases have traditionally hosted Scout activities and recruiters have viewed Eagle Scouts favorably.
Hegseths intervention signals the Trump administrations willingness to leverage federal resources in culture war battles. The Defense Secretary did not specify what form the withdrawal of military support might take.
Scouting America has defended its evolution as necessary to remain relevant and serve all young people interested in outdoor skills, leadership development, and community service. The organization has noted that many other countries scouting organizations have been co-ed for decades.
Analysis
Why This Matters
The threat puts one of Americas most iconic youth organizations in the crosshairs of partisan politics. Military support has been integral to Scouting programs, and its loss could significantly impact the organizations operations and prestige.
Background
The Boy Scouts opened membership to girls in 2019 and completed its rebrand to Scouting America in 2025. The changes followed years of declining membership and cultural shifts, though they sparked criticism from traditionalists who valued the single-sex nature of the organization.
Key Perspectives
Conservatives argue the name change abandons an important institution that specifically served boys and taught masculine values. Supporters of the changes say scouting skills and values are universal and excluding half the population was outdated.
What to Watch
How Scouting America responds to the ultimatum, and whether other federal agencies follow the Pentagons lead in pressuring the organization.