WATCH: Senator Kirsten Gillibrand Goes on Long Rant About Women and LGBTQ People in the Military—But Everyone’s Talking About What ‘Wokeness’ Did to Her Face
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) unleashed a fiery tirade during Pete Hegseth’s confirmation hearing for Secretary of Defense, accusing him of making “brutal” and “mean” statements about women in the military. With dramatic flair, Gillibrand waved a piece of paper she claimed outlined “very difficult” standards for military service, demanding Hegseth explain his alleged remarks.
“You will have to change how you see women to do this job well, and I don’t know if you are capable of that,” she said, brimming with indignation.
Hegseth, composed as ever, shut down the theatrics, clarifying that he has never disparaged women in uniform. His critiques, he explained, focused on cases where standards were unnecessarily lowered, jeopardizing the effectiveness of the military.
But Gillibrand wasn’t finished, interrupting to insist, “Do not deny that you’ve made those statements — you have,” labeling his comments as “beneath the position” he seeks.
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Her over-the-top performance, however, backfired among conservatives, who see her as the poster child for “woke gone wrong.” Social media erupted with side-by-side photos of Gillibrand—one from the hearing and another from five years ago—sparking debate about how wokeness has seemingly “destroyed” her both politically and personally.
These photos are 5 years apart.
As Gillibrand doubled down on identity politics, Hegseth remained laser-focused on his vision for rebuilding the military, refusing to engage in her theatrics. His cool, collected demeanor was a sharp contrast to Gillibrand’s frantic energy, and conservatives couldn’t help but cheer.
This hearing is shaping up to be a defining moment—not just for Hegseth’s confirmation but also for exposing how out of touch some in Washington have become. Wokeness may have taken its toll on Gillibrand, but it looks like Hegseth is ready to put strength and unity back in the Pentagon.

I’m shrewd, passionate, learned and energetic, God-fearing and patriotic. I’ve done a fine job reintroducing good old American conservatism to a new generation of Americans. I’ve earned the love and friendship of many, the hatred of some, but the respect of all.
Why is the Crypt Keeper shouting at Pete!?
PMS
Another crazy left-wing hysterical Karen. Put her on the front line in a war with a rifle and see what she say then.
Having been in the military (honorably discharged) I can attest the racist quota, goal, equity precepts of D I E and CRT destroy unit cohesion. Differing standards for different groups also lead to the same result A prime example are the current leadership in lofty pentagon positions where politics has always trumped ability.
Drugs, or just a pervy lifestyle, she needs to do something to come back from the brink.
The old grey haired cu nt needs smacked a few times
Put this moron Karan up on the front lines in Ukraine with a rifle and see how she likes it.
She’s useless.