Politico reports:
Rank and file troops sharing candidates’ positions on social media. MAGA ball caps on display at military bases. Former soldiers, pardoned of war crimes charges, appearing on stage with the commander-in-chief at a political fundraiser.
These and other examples of partisanship seeping into the armed forces are prompting generals and admirals to confront what they see as a growing threat — the active-duty military losing its hard-fought role in society as a force untainted by politics.
Troops can express their personal opinions, pen a letter to the editor on a political issue, and even “like” a candidate’s web page. But they are expressly prohibited from engaging in advocacy, including attending a campaign rally in uniform — which is why donning “Make America Great Again” hats or displaying campaign paraphernalia on duty is considered verboten.
Hit the link for more on the evolving rules. The USMC, it seems, is being the most aggressive on this issue. Fascinating article.