Leading Democrats are demanding the resignation of U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after reports surfaced that he leaked classified military plans in a group chat. The breach involved sensitive information about U.S. airstrikes in Yemen, which was shared with unauthorized individuals, including a journalist from The Atlantic.
The revelation has sparked national security concerns, with lawmakers on both sides calling for an investigation into how classified information was mishandled. The White House and Pentagon have yet to issue an official response regarding Hegseth’s future.
Leaked Military Plans Spark Outrage
According to reports, Hegseth disclosed detailed operational data via the messaging app Signal on March 15. The information included strike targets, weapon details, and sequencing for a planned U.S. military operation in Yemen. Two hours after the leak, U.S. forces launched airstrikes against Houthi-controlled sites.
The National Security Council confirmed that the leaked messages “appear to be authentic” and have raised serious security concerns. The disclosure of such information before an active military operation has been described as an unprecedented breach.
Jeffrey Goldberg, Editor-in-Chief of The Atlantic, acknowledged that a journalist from the publication had received messages containing classified military details. The breach has led to urgent discussions within the administration about possible security lapses at the Department of Defense.
Democrats Demand Accountability
Democratic leaders swiftly condemned the leak and called for Hegseth’s immediate resignation or removal. DNC Chair Ken Martin stated that Hegseth’s actions proved he was “unfit to lead the Defense Department.”
“Our national security cannot be entrusted to someone this reckless,” Martin said in a press briefing. “This was a dangerous failure in judgment.”
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries described the situation as “outrageous and shocking,” urging Republicans to support a bipartisan congressional inquiry.
“This breach of security is indefensible,” Jeffries said. “The American people deserve answers, and they deserve leadership that prioritizes national security.”
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed deep concerns about the use of an unauthorized app for government communication.
“This isn’t just about the leak—it’s about the failure to follow proper security protocols,” Schumer said. “Classified information should never be transmitted over Signal or any other non-secure platform.”
Mixed Reactions from Republicans
Republican lawmakers have offered varied responses, with some downplaying the incident and others pushing for accountability. Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana dismissed the controversy, stating, “Mistakes happen.”
However, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker took a more serious stance, confirming that a bipartisan inquiry will investigate the matter.
“This is a national security issue, and we will get to the bottom of it,” Wicker said. “Both parties must work together to prevent future breaches.”
Senator John Cornyn, a senior member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, did not hold back in his criticism.
“This is a huge screw-up, plain and simple,” Cornyn said. “We cannot allow this kind of carelessness when it comes to military operations.”
Clinton and Other Political Figures Weigh In
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who previously faced scrutiny over her handling of classified emails, reacted with disbelief on social media.
“You have got to be kidding me,” Clinton wrote, sharing The Atlantic’s report along with a shocked emoji.
Political analysts note that the scandal could further divide Congress over national security policies. While some Republicans defend Hegseth, the growing bipartisan scrutiny could put pressure on the White House to take action.
What Happens Next
With mounting calls for accountability, the Pentagon is expected to conduct an internal review of security protocols. Lawmakers continue to push for a thorough investigation into how classified information was leaked and whether any legal consequences should follow.
As bipartisan concern grows, the future of Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary remains uncertain. His next steps—and how the Biden administration responds—will likely shape the political landscape in the weeks ahead