In terms of “qualified candidates” tracked by the academy, the drop was even more severe at 46%. In 2021, there were 3,279 qualified candidates. In 2022, there were only 1,775 qualified candidates, Breitbart reported.

While military officials blame the pandemic and a good job market, Stand Together Against Racism and Radicalism in the Services (STARRS)–a non-profit organization founded by retired Air Force generals and Air Force Academy graduates–argues that the spread of critical race theory and other leftist ideals throughout the military is driving down recruitment.