Daily Show Host Questions Hung Cao’s Witchcraft Claims Despite Military Service

If you’ve been scrolling through your news feed this week, you might have caught a viral moment that feels like it was plucked straight from a late-night comedy sketch—except it’s real life. The acting Secretary of the Navy, Hung Cao, a retired Navy captain and former Republican Senate candidate, has found himself in the crosshairs of The Daily Show for comments he made in 2023 about witches, Wicca, and what he described as the “dark” influence of the Wiccan community in Monterey, California. The segment, which aired last Thursday, has since sparked a broader conversation about leadership, extremism, and the kinds of values we expect from those steering some of the most critical institutions in the country. But here in **Austin, Texas**, where the line between progressive ideals and conservative traditions often blurs in unexpected ways, this story isn’t just a punchline—it’s a mirror reflecting deeper tensions about who gets to shape our communities and what happens when fringe beliefs seep into positions of power.

For Austinites, a city that prides itself on its eclectic culture—from its thriving LGBTQ+ scene to its long-standing ties to alternative spiritual movements—Cao’s comments hit a little too close to home. Imagine, for a moment, if a local leader in Travis County stood up at a city council meeting and warned that Austin was at risk of being “taken over by witches.” The reaction would likely range from bewildered laughter to outright outrage. Yet, when someone in Cao’s position makes similar remarks, it’s not just a local curiosity. it’s a national embarrassment, one that raises serious questions about the standards we hold for those in charge of our military, our policies, and, by extension, our collective future.

The Backstory: From Virginia Politics to the Pentagon

Hung Cao’s rise to acting Navy Secretary didn’t happen in a vacuum. Before stepping into the role following the abrupt departure of John Phelan, Cao was a political candidate in Virginia, running for the U.S. Senate in 2024. His campaign was marked by a series of controversial statements, but none more so than his 2023 interview with far-right pastor Sean Feucht, where he warned about the supposed takeover of Monterey, California, by the Wiccan community. “Monterey is a very dark place now,” Cao said. “A lot of witchcraft. The Wiccan community has really taken over there. And we can’t let that happen in Virginia.”

To be clear, Wicca is a modern pagan religion that emphasizes reverence for nature, harmony, and personal spiritual growth. It’s recognized as a legitimate faith by the U.S. Military, which even has a designated symbol for Wiccan service members on their dog tags. Cao’s conflation of Wicca with something sinister—something to be feared—reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of the religion, one that’s not just ignorant but potentially dangerous when held by someone in a position of authority. As The Daily Show host Michael Kosta put it in his segment, “What the fuck are you talking about? Why is everybody they appoint so fucking crazy?”

But Cao’s comments didn’t stop at witches. During the same interview, he similarly claimed to be African American due to the fact that he “grew up in Africa too,” a statement that was met with laughter from Feucht and, later, with incredulity from critics. His campaign rhetoric often veered into what many described as “unhinged” territory, including references to cannibalism and other conspiracy theories. Yet, despite losing his Senate bid by eight points in a state that has trended purple, Cao’s military background—20 years of service as a Navy combat veteran—seemed to be enough to earn him a spot in the Trump administration’s Pentagon shuffle.

Why Austin Should Care: The Local Ripple Effects

At first glance, it might seem like This represents just another Washington D.C. Drama playing out on a national stage. But for a city like Austin, where the military presence is both visible and influential—home to major installations like Camp Mabry and the Texas Military Department—the implications are far more tangible. The Navy, like all branches of the military, reflects the values of the administration that leads it. When those values include fearmongering about religious minorities or dismissing entire communities (like the LGBTQ+ individuals Cao criticized for their involvement in military recruitment), it sends a message to service members and civilians alike about who belongs and who doesn’t.

Consider the drag performer the Navy tapped as an ambassador in 2023, a move Cao criticized as part of a broader pattern of what he called “woke” recruitment strategies. “We need alpha males and alpha females,” he said in another clip aired on The Daily Show. “The people recruited by drag queens are not the people we aim for.” In Austin, a city where drag culture is not just accepted but celebrated—from the iconic Austin Pride celebrations to the annual QueerBomb march—such comments perceive like a direct attack on the city’s identity. They also raise concerns about how military policies might evolve under leaders who hold these views, particularly when it comes to issues like transgender service members, religious accommodations, or even the treatment of veterans from marginalized communities.

But the story doesn’t end with Cao’s personal beliefs. It’s also about the broader trend of extremist rhetoric finding a home in mainstream institutions. Austin, like many progressive cities, has spent years pushing back against policies and politicians that seek to roll back civil rights, restrict bodily autonomy, or marginalize minority groups. When someone like Cao is appointed to a role as critical as acting Navy Secretary, it’s a reminder that the fight for inclusive, evidence-based leadership isn’t just happening in Texas—it’s happening at the highest levels of government, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

The Historical Context: When Fearmongering Meets Power

Cao’s comments about witches might seem like an outlier, but they’re part of a long and troubling history of moral panics in American politics. From the Salem witch trials to the Satanic Panic of the 1980s and 1990s, fear of the unknown—or, more accurately, fear of what’s been deliberately misrepresented—has often been used to justify exclusion, discrimination, and even violence. In the 1980s, for example, daycare centers across the country were falsely accused of being hotbeds of Satanic ritual abuse, leading to wrongful convictions and ruined lives. The parallels to Cao’s rhetoric aren’t exact, but the underlying mechanism is the same: grab a misunderstood or marginalized group, paint them as a threat, and use that fear to rally support for a political agenda.

In Austin, where alternative spiritual practices have long been part of the cultural fabric—from the city’s famous “Keep Austin Weird” ethos to its thriving New Age and pagan communities—Cao’s comments feel like a throwback to a darker time. The city is home to events like the Texas Pagan Pride Day, which draws hundreds of attendees each year, as well as numerous metaphysical shops and spiritual centers. For many Austinites, Wicca and other pagan traditions aren’t just personal beliefs; they’re part of the city’s identity, a testament to its openness and diversity. To see those beliefs demonized by someone in Cao’s position is jarring, to say the least.

It’s also worth noting that Cao’s military background doesn’t inoculate him from criticism. The U.S. Military has a complicated history when it comes to religious freedom, from the forced assimilation of Native American children in military-run boarding schools to the more recent struggles of Muslim service members to practice their faith without discrimination. Cao’s comments about Wicca aren’t just tone-deaf; they’re a step backward for an institution that has, in recent years, made strides toward inclusivity, including the recognition of Wicca as an official religion and the appointment of the first openly transgender Navy SEAL.

The Bigger Picture: What So for Leadership Standards

So, what does all of this mean for Austin, and for the rest of the country? At its core, the controversy surrounding Hung Cao is about more than just witches or drag queens. It’s about the standards we set for our leaders, particularly those in positions of immense power and responsibility. The Navy, like all branches of the military, requires leaders who are not only competent but also capable of understanding and respecting the diverse communities they serve. When someone like Cao, who has a history of making inflammatory and factually inaccurate statements, is appointed to such a role, it raises serious questions about the vetting process and the values of the administration that put him there.

For Austinites, this should be a wake-up call. The city has long been a bastion of progressive values, but those values are under constant threat from forces both inside and outside Texas. Whether it’s the state legislature’s attacks on LGBTQ+ rights, the ongoing battle over reproductive freedom, or the creeping influence of extremist rhetoric in national politics, the fight for a more inclusive and equitable society is far from over. And while Austin may feel like a world away from Washington D.C., the decisions made in the nation’s capital have real, tangible effects on the lives of Texans—from the military families stationed at Camp Mabry to the small business owners who rely on federal contracts to the students at the University of Texas who may one day consider serving their country.

It’s also a reminder that leadership matters. The people we choose to represent us—whether in the Pentagon, the Texas Capitol, or the Austin City Council—shape the kind of society we live in. When those leaders espouse views that are rooted in fear, misinformation, or outright bigotry, it doesn’t just reflect poorly on them; it reflects poorly on all of us. And in a city like Austin, where diversity is celebrated and progress is a point of pride, that’s a message worth taking seriously.

Given My Background in Investigative Journalism and Local Advocacy, Here’s What You Can Do

If this story has left you feeling frustrated, concerned, or just plain confused about what comes next, you’re not alone. The good news is that there are concrete steps you can take to push back against extremist rhetoric and ensure that the values of inclusivity and respect are upheld in your community. Whether you’re a veteran, a member of a marginalized group, or simply a concerned citizen, here are three types of local professionals and resources you should know about in Austin:

Civil Rights and Military Policy Attorneys

If you or someone you know has been affected by discriminatory policies—whether in the military, the workplace, or elsewhere—it’s crucial to have legal representation that understands the nuances of civil rights law. In Austin, look for attorneys who specialize in:

• Military Law: These professionals can help service members navigate issues like religious accommodations, discharge upgrades, or discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation. They should have experience with the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and a track record of advocating for clients within the military justice system.
• First Amendment and Religious Freedom Cases: Given Cao’s comments about Wicca, attorneys who focus on religious freedom cases can help challenge policies or practices that infringe on the rights of minority faiths. Look for firms that have represented clients in cases involving the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) or the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.
• LGBTQ+ Rights: With Cao’s criticism of drag performers and “woke” military recruitment, attorneys who specialize in LGBTQ+ rights can help protect individuals from discrimination in hiring, housing, or public accommodations. They should be familiar with local ordinances, such as Austin’s non-discrimination policy, as well as state and federal laws like the Equality Act.

What to look for: Board certification in civil trial law, membership in organizations like the National Lawyers Guild or the Texas Civil Rights Project, and a demonstrated commitment to social justice causes. Avoid attorneys who have represented clients in cases that conflict with your values (e.g., those who have defended discriminatory policies in the past).

Community Organizers and Advocacy Groups

Change doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It takes organized, collective action to push back against harmful policies and rhetoric. In Austin, there are numerous groups working to protect civil rights, support marginalized communities, and hold leaders accountable. Here’s what to look for:

• Veterans’ Advocacy Groups: Organizations like the Texas Veterans Commission or local chapters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) can provide support for veterans who feel alienated by the current political climate. They can also help connect you with resources for mental health, job training, and legal assistance.
• LGBTQ+ and Drag Advocacy: Groups like Out Youth, the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce, and local drag collectives (such as Drag Queen Story Hour Austin) are on the front lines of protecting and celebrating LGBTQ+ culture. They often organize protests, educational events, and community-building activities that can help counteract the kind of rhetoric Cao has espoused.
• Interfaith and Pagan Communities: For those who practice Wicca or other minority faiths, connecting with local interfaith groups can provide a sense of solidarity and support. Organizations like the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Texas or the Austin Interfaith Inclusive Alliance function to protect religious freedom and combat bigotry. Pagan-specific groups, such as the Austin Pagan Pride or the Texas Local Council of Covenant of the Goddess, can also offer resources and community.

What to look for: Groups with a clear mission statement, transparent leadership, and a history of successful advocacy. Avoid organizations that lack accountability or have been accused of financial mismanagement. Look for those that offer volunteer opportunities, educational workshops, or direct action campaigns.

Political Strategists and Campaign Consultants

If you’re ready to take your activism to the next level, working with political strategists or campaign consultants can help you make a tangible impact in local, state, or even national elections. These professionals can help you:

• Run for Office: Whether you’re considering a run for the Austin City Council, the Texas House of Representatives, or even a school board position, campaign consultants can help you craft a message, build a coalition, and navigate the complexities of running a political campaign. Look for those with experience in progressive or independent campaigns, particularly in Texas.
• Support Pro-Equality Candidates: Political strategists can help you identify candidates who align with your values and develop strategies to support their campaigns, whether through volunteering, fundraising, or voter outreach. They can also help you understand the key issues at stake in upcoming elections, from local zoning laws to state-level battles over LGBTQ+ rights.
• Advocate for Policy Change: If you’re more interested in policy than politics, consultants can help you draft legislation, organize lobbying efforts, or build coalitions to push for specific reforms. For example, you might work with a consultant to draft a local ordinance protecting religious minorities or to advocate for the inclusion of Wiccan and pagan holidays in the city’s official calendar.

What to look for: Consultants with a proven track record of success in Texas politics, particularly in progressive or bipartisan campaigns. Look for those who have worked with organizations like the Texas Democratic Party, the Texas Freedom Network, or local grassroots groups. Avoid consultants who have worked on campaigns that conflict with your values (e.g., those who have helped elect candidates with a history of discriminatory policies).

At the end of the day, the story of Hung Cao and his witch-hunting rhetoric is about more than just one man’s bizarre beliefs. It’s about the kind of society we want to live in and the kind of leaders we’re willing to tolerate. In Austin, where diversity is celebrated and progress is a way of life, that’s a question worth taking seriously. Whether you choose to get involved through legal action, community organizing, or political advocacy, the most critical thing is that you don’t stay silent. Because when extremist rhetoric goes unchallenged, it doesn’t just fade away—it seeps into the institutions that shape our lives, from the military to the schools our kids attend to the laws that govern our communities.

Ready to find trusted professionals who can help you make a difference? Browse our complete directory of top-rated civil rights attorneys, community organizers, and political strategists in the Austin area today.