Fitzpatrick Letter to Secretary Hegseth Regarding Scouting America

Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) sent the following letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth regarding Scouting America.

Dear Secretary Hegseth,

I write to express intense concern regarding the announcement that the Pentagon is considering suspending support to Scouting America.1
For over 100 years, Scouting America has been influential in molding young Americans into leaders. Millions of men and women have joined Scouting to learn the values of patriotism, courage, and self-reliance. Now is not the time to be playing ideological games with an organization that has developed some of our nation's finest leaders and war fighters.

Being an Eagle Scout myself and knowing the incredible young men and women in my community who are eager to find opportunities to serve and contribute, this decision will jeopardize the strong pipeline into military and public service. Scouting America's policy change to include women is not one that weakens the organization. I urge you to consider the implications of suspending support to Scouting America and the lasting harm in deterring young men and women who are eager to serve.

I am requesting answers to the following questions by February 17, 2026:

1. What specific policies adopted by Scouting America have led to this determination?
a.Does the rationale include the inclusion of young women in the organization?

2. Has Scouting America been notified with appropriate time to address this decision within their organization?

3. How does the Pentagon plan to support and encourage youth leadership organizations that will instill education in civics and values of patriotism, courage, and self-reliance?

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt response.

Sincerely,
Brian Fitzpatrick
Member of Congress

The full letter can be downloaded here.