Tangent
This is not the first time testosterone levels have come up in the Trump administration. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said in January that Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services, reviewed Trump’s health records and “said he’s got the highest testosterone level that he’s ever seen for an individual over 70 years old.” The Food and Drug Administration also said earlier this year it is considering expanding testosterone replacement therapy as a treatment for low sex drive in men who have lower levels for no known reason.
Key Background
Hegseth has a long history of opposing women in key military roles—he said in a November 2024 interview with podcast host Shawn Ryan, the military “should not have women in combat roles” and “men in those positions are more capable.” He has also attacked transgender service members, saying in a May 2025 speech, “we are leaving wokeness and weakness behind . . . no more dudes in dresses, we’re done with that s–t.” He’s made numerous policy changes with an emphasis on masculinity, including requiring all combat service members to meet “the highest male standard only” of physicality in new fitness tests. “If women can make it, excellent. If not, it is what it is,” Hegseth said, adding, “weak men won’t qualify.” He’s also implemented several policies related to soldier’s’ physical appearances, banning beards and declaring the era of “fat troops” is over.
further reading
‘Fat Generals’ Now Unacceptable, Hegseth Warns Top Military Leaders (Forbes)