Trump Removes Joint Chiefs Chair Brown, Nominates Retired General Caine

President Donald Trump has dismissed General CQ Brown from his position as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, announcing his decision via his Truth Social platform, Al Jazeeraa reports.

The president thanked Brown for his “over 40 years of service” and called him “a fine gentleman and an outstanding leader,” but did not provide a reason for the immediate dismissal.

In the same announcement, President Trump stated his intention to nominate retired Lieutenant General Dan “Razin” Caine as Brown’s successor. This nomination breaks with established precedent by selecting an officer who has already retired to serve as the nation’s top military officer.

General Brown, a former fighter pilot with command experience in the Middle East and Asia, was the second Black officer to hold the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He previously faced criticism after publicly expressing support for the Black Lives Matter movement following the death of George Floyd. This stance made him a target in the administration’s efforts to combat what it describes as “woke culture” and a push for diversity within the military. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had previously suggested Brown’s appointment was based on his race.

In addition to Brown’s removal, Secretary Hegseth announced the departures of Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Lisa Franchetti and Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force General Jim Slife.

Since taking office, President Trump has overseen a series of personnel changes within the upper levels of government. The Pentagon is also planning to cut 5,400 civilian probationary positions starting next week.