A retired Army brigadier general running for Florida’s 13th Congressional District seat faces a damning report from the Army inspector general alleging she created a hostile work environment and was a “toxic leader” during her military service. The probe, which delayed her promotion to one-star general in 2015, revealed that Colonel Leela Gray repeatedly displayed disrespect toward subordinates and destroyed their careers.
The investigation found Gray caused serious mental anguish to a mature and highly educated sergeant first class who held a doctorate. Multiple soldiers and officers testified under the threat of retribution, with 48 personnel coming forward to report her behavior during commands at least one of which resulted in her being dismissed from service.
According to the Army inspector general’s report, Gray was described as “a toxic leader who causes a toxic work environment.” The document states she “consistently speaks badly of officers and soldiers behind their backs” and “destroys their careers.” It also alleged that Gray tried to hire unqualified friends and forced subordinates to work extensively while taking credit for accomplishments.
Gray recently shared a comment on social media calling Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth an “unqualified frat boy.” She stated: “As a retired brigadier general with 30 years of service, Hegseth is an unqualified frat boy. He is a disaster for the Department of Defense. He should never have been hired and he needs to be fired.”
Despite the allegations, Gray was confirmed as a brigadier general during President Barack Obama’s second term in office. The latest polls show her with a five-point lead over Representative Anna Paulina Luna.