On Monday, the Department of Defense agreed to investigate white supremacy and extremist ideology in the military. They plan to evaluate the procedures and policies that leave service members vulnerable to recruitment by extremist groups.
The announcement is a response to a letter from 14 U.S. Senators, including Oregon Senator Ron Wyden and California Senator Dianne Feinstein. They asked the Pentagon to “prevent, address and neutralize extremist ideology within the Armed Forces," citing the recent assault on the U.S. capitol.
A number of people who attacked the Capitol have been identified as active duty servicemembers, reservists, retirees and veterans.
Recent polls found that around one-third of active-duty respondents say they have witnessed racist ideologies in the ranks. Right-wing groups often target servicemembers.
The group of Senators recommended that service members be better supported when they’re transitioning from the armed forces so they can build resistance to misinformation from extremist groups.
The investigation is beginning immediately.
