Hero Fighter Pilot Amy McGrath Calls Out Trump and Pete Hegseth After Controversial Military Speeches

Combat pilot and Democratic candidate Amy McGrath went viral after delivering a pointed response to Donald Trump and MAGA supporter Pete Hegseth’s recent speeches to U.S. military leaders. Her comments highlight the difference between real military experience and political theatrics.

Speaking with CNN, McGrath addressed Hegseth’s insistence on imposing “male standards” in the military:

"When I flew combat missions, there was no separate male or female standard for flying an aircraft onto a carrier. You either can do it, or you can’t," McGrath said. She emphasized that combat roles have always maintained a single standard for all service members, which women have consistently met since combat jobs were opened to them.

Hegseth’s widely criticized speech reportedly included calls to end “woke” initiatives in the military, fire “fat” soldiers and leaders, and enforce outdated “male standards.” Many experts and military personnel viewed the event as a PR stunt rather than a serious policy discussion. McGrath highlighted the broader issue, noting that generals and admirals were diverted from critical duties overseas to attend what she described as a largely performative session.

"The president’s speech was rambling, filled with misinformation, and politicized our military. The most concerning moment was when he suggested using the military and U.S. cities as a training ground. That’s not just absurd it’s dangerous," McGrath added.

She continued her criticism on social media, calling out Hegseth directly:

"This morning’s grandstanding at Quantico only confirmed what we already knew: Pete Hegseth continues to misrepresent women in the military. Combat standards have never been divided by gender. Since women entered these roles, one standard has been applied and women have met it. You either do the job, or you don’t. Period."

Amy McGrath’s remarks have been widely shared as an example of a real military perspective pushing back against politicized narratives and outdated ideas about gender standards in the armed forces.