Brandon Newsom, Director of Business Operations for the U.S Department of War (U.S. Navy) was secretly recorded by James O’Keefe stating that he would use his influence to reverse Trump administration policies once the president leaves office.
With 16 years of service overseeing critical corporate operations including HR, IT, security, facilities, and records management in support of Secretary Hegseth, Newsom described himself as a stabilizing force across administrations.
“I have the influence…. I can undo whatever’s been done,” Newsom told O’Keefe. He explained his decision to remain in his post through political transitions: “When the election changes… I want to stay and stick it out so that when the time comes, I can undo whatever’s been done.”
Newsom specifically targeted two policies for reversal. He criticized the Pentagon’s monthly voluntary Christian faith service which includes prayer, Bible readings, and sermons. Newsome called for it to be replaced with multi-faith services. He also opposed efforts to reclassify certain senior career officials in policy roles, a move designed to increase accountability to elected leaders.
When asked whether he had the formal authority to enact such changes, Newsom replied: “I don’t have the authority to do that, but I have the influence… It’s not about me, it’s about the position.”
The senior official also expressed strong personal views, calling President Trump “a narcissist” and dismissing the administration’s Iran policy as “completely stupid… driven on one man’s ego.”
Newsom further hinted at insider knowledge of Washington, saying, “I’ve seen some things. In true D.C. nature, you don’t always reveal everything in D.C.”
The recording has reignited a longstanding debate in American governance: Who truly holds power the elected officials chosen by the people, or the career bureaucrats who often remain in place long after administrations change?
If you are on the inside of any government agency, federal, state, or local office and you see corruption — if you know the American people are being lied to — reach out to us. Email us at [email protected] or by phone at 914-491-9395. An OMG journalist will get back to you.
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