Overview

• The Pentagon confirmed a green room near the press briefing area was modestly upgraded with existing inventory and limited spending, contrary to initial reports of a $40,000 cost.
• Hegseth denies ordering the changes, which included a new chair, mirror, and makeup lighting, framing them as routine updates during a leadership transition.
• Criticism of the renovation coincides with scrutiny over Hegseth’s use of Signal to share sensitive airstrike details with unauthorized recipients, including his wife and personal lawyer.
• The Pentagon Inspector General continues to review the Signal communications, with concerns raised about potential risks to operational security.
• Hegseth has fired three senior aides over alleged leaks and maintains that the controversies stem from disgruntled former employees and media bias.