Stars and Stripes publisher steps down amid Pentagon pressure over editorial control

The longtime publisher of Stars and Stripes, Max D Lederer Jr, has resigned, citing fundamental differences with the Defense Department's leadership. The resignation comes amid the Trump administration's push for greater editorial control over the military newspaper. The publication has faced criticism from the administration for covering issues like poor conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln.

Lederer's departure marks the latest shift in a long-running struggle over the military newspaper's independence, which dates to its founding during the Civil War era. The publication has historically operated with editorial autonomy despite receiving substantial government funding, a balance that has come under increasing strain in recent years. During Trump's first term, the Pentagon attempted to eliminate the paper's budget entirely, though the president later pledged to preserve its funding.

The current administration has pursued a more direct approach, announcing plans in January to align the outlet with government priorities. Beyond Lederer's resignation, the Pentagon removed ombudsman Jacqueline Smith, whose role was specifically designed to shield reporting from political interference. Hegseth has simultaneously tightened access for journalists across the Defense Department, with some restrictions already blocked by federal courts.