Navy Sailor’s Political Appearance Raises Concerns

By September 11, 2026 / 12:48 PM EDT / CBS News

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Washington — Petty Officer 2nd Class Wilbert Joseph Castañeda, an active-duty Navy sailor, recently appeared on stage at the Republican National Committee’s midterm convention. His participation raises questions about the military’s enforcement of restrictions designed to keep active-duty troops out of political events.

Castañeda did not speak or wear his military uniform during the appearance. Instead, he wore a black suit and red tie, holding a sign with the number of days he spent imprisoned in Venezuela. He was introduced alongside other former hostages freed during the Trump administration. The event was a clear partisan gathering aimed at rallying support for the upcoming midterm elections.

Defense Department rules prohibit active-duty service members from participating in partisan political rallies and conventions, whether in uniform or not. While they can attend such events as spectators, active-duty members are restricted from appearing as participants.

Questions linger about whether Navy officials were aware of or approved Castañeda’s participation. Efforts to contact him and the Pentagon for comments went unanswered.

Castañeda, previously a Navy SEAL, had his Trident removed due to performance issues, indicating a reduction in rank from petty officer first class to second class. This recent event adds to his already eventful military career.

Castañeda enlisted in the Navy in 2007, serving in special warfare units and earning multiple service medals until 2022. In 2024, he was arrested in Venezuela, accused of being involved in a coup, though the charge was later dropped due to lack of evidence. He was freed in a prisoner exchange in 2025.

His family claims Castañeda has suffered traumatic brain injuries and that these impacted his decisions, such as traveling to Venezuela. He has been under evaluation for both his physical and psychological condition since his release.

Other service members have also faced scrutiny for crossing the line between military service and political activity. Major Jason Watson of the Air Force faces charges for criticizing Trump while in uniform, highlighting the military’s effort to maintain apolitical status among its ranks.

Courts and the military have historically enforced a separation between military service and partisan politics to preserve trust in the armed forces. This principle remains important despite the political party involved.

Eleanor Watson contributed to this report.

In: Republican Party