Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday announced the 15 individuals who will make up the new Defense Policy Board, completing a process that began over a year ago when the previous panel was removed. Robert Lighthizer, who served as U.S. Trade Representative during President Trump's first term, will chair the board. The Defense Policy Board serves as an advisory body to senior Pentagon leadership on defense policy matters.
The announcement marks the completion of a transition that began in early 2025 when Hegseth cleared out members of the previous board. The advisory panel had previously included former government officials, academics and defense industry experts who provided guidance on national security strategy and military policy.
What the Left Is Saying
Progressive critics have raised concerns about the extended period without a functioning Defense Policy Board. Some Democratic lawmakers noted that advisory panels play a critical role in providing diverse perspectives on complex defense issues. The absence of such a body for over a year, they argue, could create gaps in institutional knowledge at a time when global security challenges remain significant.
Some former Pentagon officials who served under previous administrations have noted the importance of continuity in advisory structures. "These boards exist to ensure that decision-makers have access to a range of expertise," one former defense official said, speaking on background. The makeup and experience level of the new board members will likely face scrutiny from oversight committees, according to some Democratic staff familiar with defense matters.
What the Right Is Saying
Administration supporters say the transition reflects President Trump's commitment to installing officials aligned with his priorities in key national security positions. Defense Secretary Hegseth has emphasized bringing fresh perspectives to Pentagon advisory structures, arguing that reform is necessary to ensure the board supports current policy objectives rather than perpetuating establishment viewpoints.
Conservative commentators have praised Lighthizer's selection, noting his experience navigating complex trade and economic policy issues during Trump's first term. Supporters argue his background in international negotiations will bring valuable expertise to defense policy discussions, particularly regarding allied partnerships and military procurement strategies.
What the Numbers Show
The Defense Policy Board was established by Congress in 1985 to provide independent advice to the secretary of defense. The panel typically includes between 12 and 18 members serving staggered terms. Monday's announcement brings the board back to its standard size after over a year at zero members following Hegseth's decision to remove all sitting members in early 2025.
Lighthizer served as USTR from 2017 to 2021, negotiating trade agreements including the USMCA. He will be the first person with a primarily trade background to chair the Defense Policy Board, according to available records on board composition going back several decades.
The Bottom Line
The new Defense Policy Board restores an advisory channel that had been absent for over a year at the Pentagon. Lighthizer's selection signals an emphasis on international economic strategy alongside traditional defense concerns. Congressional oversight committees are expected to schedule hearings to examine the qualifications and perspectives of the newly appointed members. The panel's first formal recommendations will be closely watched for how they align with current administration priorities.