Overview

• Hegseth is scheduled to testify before multiple congressional committees to address scrutiny over his use of the unclassified Signal app for detailed discussions of a Yemen operation.
• His decision to deploy roughly 700 Marines alongside National Guard troops in Los Angeles has prompted legal and political questions about the domestic use of active-duty forces.
• At least three experienced candidates have declined senior Pentagon roles under Hegseth, prompting Vice President Vance and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles to step in to help with recruitment.
• White House officials removed Hegseth and his personal attorney from leading leak investigations into three suspended aides after no evidence emerged, highlighting concerns about his management judgment.
• Under Hegseth’s leadership the Pentagon has eliminated diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and approved high-cost projects such as a $45 million Army birthday parade and security upgrades for the presidential jet.