A senior adviser to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has recommended that the Pentagon sever its long-standing relationship with Scouting America, formerly known as the Boy Scouts, criticizing the organization for its progressive, 'woke' changes. The move is part of a broader debate over the organization's rebranding and inclusive policies.

A top adviser to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has recommended that the Pentagon sever its relationship with Scouting America, criticizing the organization as 'too woke' to support. This recommendation, reported in the context of broader political turbulence including tariff reversals, highlights the ideological battleground where progressive values are targeted by right-wing officials.

The organization formerly known as Boy Scouts of America officially changed its name to Scouting America on February 8, 2025, as part of a strategic move to embrace inclusivity and modernize its image. Despite facing backlash from conservative groups critical of the shift, the press release emphasized a commitment to creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all youth.

Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America) has announced updated youth protection standards effective September 1, 2023. The new policy mandates enhanced adult registration procedures, including criminal background checks, mandatory youth protection training, and supervision requirements aimed at safeguarding young participants during Scouting events.

The Boy Scouts of America convened its inaugural Youth Protection Committee on August 30, 2023, at its headquarters. The committee, which includes survivors of abuse, local council representatives, and industry experts, is tasked with enhancing transparency, accountability, and safety standards for youth in scouting.

Scouting America, formerly known as the Boy Scouts of America, is reported to be lobbying in Wisconsin in support of legislation that would require local schools to allow representatives of patriotic organizations to engage with students and distribute materials. This lobbying effort is seen as an attempt to promote a nationalist agenda by leveraging the organization’s influence in educational settings.

In 2023, following its emergence from bankruptcy over abuse claims, Scouting America assembled one of the largest trusts in U.S. history to compensate abuse victims and took steps to further protect youth by hiring a youth protection executive who reports directly to the CEO and by establishing a youth protection committee composed of child protection experts and survivors.