Overview
- CNN data analyst Harry Enten said Thursday that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s net approval has fallen to about minus‑25 overall and roughly minus‑43 with Independents.
- Rep. Thomas Massie filed articles of impeachment for Hegseth, and House Speaker Mike Johnson called an early recess that delayed any floor vote.
- Critics in media and among defense insiders say Hegseth has prioritized culture‑war signaling and personal loyalty over military management and readiness.
- Analysts point out Enten’s comparison to Donald Rumsfeld in 2006 and warn that sustained low ratings tied to an unpopular war could pose electoral risks for Republicans.
- Recent reporting has also documented Pentagon turmoil and senior departures that critics link to leadership choices on the Iran war and military readiness.