Pentagon Rolls Out FAKE Press Corps In Desperate New Promo

In a move that has stunned media watchdogs and drawn sharp criticism from journalists nationwide, the Pentagon unveiled what appears to be a “fake” press corps as part of a new promotional campaign released this week. The controversial rollout, intended to showcase transparency and openness, has backfired, raising serious questions about the Department of Defense’s approach to public relations and credibility.

The Unveiling

On Monday, the Pentagon released a slickly produced video segment across its social media platforms and official website. The segment, billed as a “behind-the-scenes look at how the Pentagon communicates with the public,” featured a group of individuals posing as reporters in a simulated press conference. These “reporters” lobbed softball questions, praised the military’s operations, and appeared to read from prepared scripts.

Sharp-eyed viewers quickly noticed that none of the supposed journalists represented any known media outlet. A closer look revealed that several were actually Pentagon staffers or actors hired for the production.

Immediate Backlash

Within hours, real members of the press and advocacy groups sounded the alarm. The Society of Professional Journalists issued a statement condemning the stunt: “The Pentagon’s use of a fake press corps undermines the essential role of a free and independent media in a democracy. This is a troubling development that erodes public trust.”

The National Press Club called the promo “deeply misleading,” arguing that it gives the false impression of accountability while avoiding genuine scrutiny.

On social media, journalists and citizens alike expressed outrage. “If the Pentagon wants to demonstrate transparency, they should answer real questions from real reporters,” tweeted CNN correspondent Jake Tapper. “Anything else is just propaganda.”

Pentagon’s Response

Faced with mounting criticism, Pentagon spokesperson Col. Melissa Grant defended the campaign, stating, “The video was meant to illustrate the process of press briefings for educational purposes. It was never intended to replace or mimic actual media interactions.”

Grant insisted that the Pentagon remains committed to regular press conferences and open dialogue with accredited journalists. However, she did not address why the promotional video failed to clearly disclose its use of actors and staffers.

Media Watchdogs Sound the Alarm

Media experts say the incident highlights growing concerns about government transparency and the use of controlled messaging. “This is part of a worrying trend,” said Dr. Samuel Reed, a professor of media ethics at Georgetown University. “When institutions create their own ‘news’ and present it as journalism, it blurs the line between information and propaganda.”

Reed added that such tactics can have a chilling effect on public discourse and undermine confidence in official statements.

Calls for Accountability

In the wake of the controversy, several lawmakers have called for an investigation into the Pentagon’s media practices. Senator Claire Donovan (D-MA) announced plans to introduce legislation requiring all government promotional materials to clearly disclose when actors or staff are used.

“This is about honesty,” Donovan said. “The American people deserve to know when they’re seeing real journalism and when they’re seeing a scripted performance.”

Looking Forward

As the Pentagon faces growing scrutiny, media organizations and advocacy groups are urging the Department of Defense to recommit to genuine transparency. Many argue that the best way forward is to allow tough questions and honest debate, rather than staged productions.

For now, the “fake press corps” promo remains a cautionary tale about the importance of a free press—and the risks of blurring the line between news and narrative.