Pentagon Secretary Testifies on 2026 Budget Request
Pentagon Secretary Pete Hegseth appeared before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Wednesday, marking his fourth appearance this month to discuss the 2026 budget request.
During the hearing, Hegseth encountered tough questions from Democrats, who presented a hypothetical scenario meant to criticize the Trump administration’s approach as overreaching and authoritarian.
“It’s all intended to entrap me, and I’m not falling for it,” he stated emphatically.
Democrats pressed Hegseth on various issues, including the Trump administration’s strategy amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran, the military’s deployment in Los Angeles, and the shortage of experienced military leaders.
Senator Jack Reid (D-RI) cast doubt on Hegseth’s leadership and pointed out that since Hegseth took office, the Department of Defense (DOD) has been “overwhelmed by disruptions and chaos.”
In response, Hegseth highlighted the global instability witnessed under previous administrations, referencing events like the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, the outbreak of war in Ukraine, and the recent Hamas attack on October 7, 2023.
“What we experienced was a manifestation of weakness and disorder orchestrated by the Biden administration,” Hegseth remarked, referring to the previous Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin. “If I need to implement changes at the start of my term to re-establish deterrence, rebuild the army, and restore the fighting spirit, that seems fair to me.”
Some Democratic leaders criticized Trump for dispatching National Guard troops to Los Angeles amidst violent anti-immigration protests.
“What he’s doing could be illegal,” asserted Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). “I’d like to know if there are plans for using active-duty military in other cities. Do you have a contingency for that?”
Blumenthal expressed concern regarding Trump’s actions, referring to them as “deeply troubling.”
Hegseth responded, “Senator, I agree with the president’s perspective that we are experiencing distressing and unsafe times, as you mentioned. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers are facing attacks in cities across America.”
Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) also probed Hegseth about the military’s deployment, posing a distinct hypothetical. “You argue that lethality is your top priority. Are you considering unleashing this lethal force against American citizens in places like LA?” Hirono questioned.
Hegseth opted not to directly answer her concerns.
“I want to maintain professionalism in my response,” he snapped back.
“Given the risky nature of mobilizing the military domestically, the possible politicization of the military is a real worry,” she continued. “If the President were to order you to harm a peaceful protester, would you comply?”
Hegseth stated, “I reject the notion of following any illegal orders designed to ensnare me into a trap.”
Senator Mark Wayne Mullin (R-Okla.) used his speaking time to defend Hegseth after Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich.) insisted that Hegseth wouldn’t be held accountable for purportedly revealing military actions through messaging apps.
Mullin questioned, “Who took responsibility for the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan? Thirteen soldiers perished, and countless Americans were left behind due to Secretary Austin’s management. Did anyone step up during that ordeal?”
The senator defended Hegseth’s tenure in DOD after Democrats alleged that chaos prevailed under his leadership. Mullin also remarked on low morale and retention rates in the military, stating “you’ve had a recruitment issue without any increase in standards.”
“Now, we’re seeing the highest morale in decades and recruitment efforts that surpass expectations,” he added.
