Stars and Stripes Publisher Steps Down | Savannah News

Max Lederer Jr., publisher of Stars and Stripes, is stepping down at the end of September amid growing tensions with the Pentagon over editorial independence. He criticized the Defense Department’s push to overhaul the paper’s mission — shifting focus to military-centric content like weapons and fitness — as a betrayal of the newspaper’s long-standing commitment to First Amendment principles. The move follows the firing of the paper’s ombudsman and comes as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth tightens control over Pentagon media, including controversial new policies like requiring escorts for journalists in classified areas. Lederer fears the push toward full digital transformation could alienate troops, while also questioning whether his retirement will be smooth or if an interim leader will be named. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/21a60aa0161cac72