Senate Democrats Block Coast Guard Nominee Over Controversial Hate Symbol Policy Update

By James Morley III | Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Two Senate Democrats have placed holds on the nomination of Adm. Kevin Lunday to lead the Coast Guard following the service’s updated workplace harassment policy that refers to swastikas and nooses as “potentially divisive” symbols—a change lawmakers argue downplays imagery widely recognized as hateful.

Sens. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) have blocked expedited consideration of Lunday’s promotion, jeopardizing a confirmation vote that was expected this week.

The revised policy has drawn sharp criticism because it appears to contradict Lunday’s November order prohibiting the display of hate symbols, including nooses and swastikas, in Coast Guard facilities.

On Monday, the Coast Guard sent a memo to Congress downgrading swastikas from “hate symbols” to “potentially divisive,” prompting swift bipartisan backlash and a scramble to clarify or strengthen guidance.

In a statement, Duckworth questioned why the policy manual did not remove what she called an “absurd characterization” that treats nooses and swastikas as merely “potentially divisive,” noting Lunday had previously affirmed both are hate symbols.

The updated policy permits commanders to act when such symbols are publicly displayed but includes exemptions for private spaces—a detail critics say could lead to inconsistent enforcement.

Rosen stated her hold will remain until the Coast Guard provides satisfactory answers, expressing concerns that the service may be backtracking on commitments to combat antisemitism and protect personnel from hate incidents.