White House Backs Hegseth Amid Signal Leak Controversy

The White House reiterated its support for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after reports emerged that he shared sensitive military strike details in a second Signal messaging chat, this time including his wife, brother, and others. Critics, including Democratic leaders, have called for Hegseth’s resignation, arguing that sharing operational strike timelines via an unsecured app poses serious national security risks. The administration, however, dismissed the controversy as the result of disgruntled employees and maintained that no classified information was disclosed, framing the leaks as part of an ongoing institutional power struggle within the Pentagon. The Pentagon is currently facing significant internal turmoil, with multiple staff departures and an active investigation into information leaks. Former defense officials have also raised concerns about Hegseth’s judgment and the appropriateness of using Signal for sensitive communications. Despite mounting scrutiny and political pressure, President Trump and the White House have stood by Hegseth.