Hegseth Questioned Over Signal Leak, LA Deployment

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced congressional scrutiny over controversies during his first months in office, including the mistaken inclusion of a journalist in a Signal chat sharing sensitive military plans. Lawmakers pressed him on his decision to deploy nearly 5,000 Marines and National Guard members to Los Angeles during immigration protest unrest, raising legal, fiscal, and precedent concerns under laws restricting military use in civilian matters. Hegseth was also questioned about the Trump administration's $1 trillion defense budget proposal, expensive Pentagon projects, and ongoing internal turmoil marked by abrupt staff changes. Critics highlighted a shift toward domestic militarization and internal discord, while White House officials have reportedly warned Hegseth to restore order. Hegseth defended the National Guard’s expanded domestic role and emphasized homeland security priorities. The hearings are considered a key test of his credibility and the Pentagon’s future direction.