Despite recent controversies and staff departures, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz has affirmed the administration’s unwavering support for Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Speaking on “Sunday Morning Futures,” Waltz expressed immense pride in Hegseth’s performance during his initial months in office.
The conversation arose amidst concerns regarding potential instability within the Pentagon, particularly its ability to effectively pursue key foreign policy objectives such as facilitating a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. Maria Bartiromo questioned whether the current state of the Defense Department— marked by reported chaos and dismissals, including reports of threatened polygraph examinations for staff — could realistically achieve these goals.
“Can you do this in what appears to be a chaotic, weakened Defense Department?” Bartiromo asked Waltz.
Waltz countered by drawing attention to past instances of perceived leadership shortcomings. He contrasted Hegseth’s approach with that of his predecessor, alleging a previous instance where the Secretary had disappeared for two weeks without explanation.
Key Points Regarding Hegseth’s Leadership:
- Waltz described Hegseth as “leading from the front,” actively working to reform the Pentagon.
- He asserted that Hegseth has “no tolerance for leaking” and dismissed criticisms as a manufactured “media narrative.”
- The recent departures of senior staff, including Hegseth’s chief of staff, were downplayed by Waltz.
Calls from some Democrats for an investigation into Hegseth’s leadership have been brushed aside by Waltz, who emphasized the Pentagon’s vast workforce and the implementation of accountability measures.
“There is a record number of generals,” he stated. “And the other piece— there is accountability. We have had several general officers that weren’t getting the job done, and admirals get fired and get replaced… That’s what the Pentagon needs.”
Waltz highlighted a shift in the Pentagon’s culture, arguing that it now embraces accountability – addressing issues such as leaks, performance failures, and procurement shortcomings. He reiterated his strong support for Hegseth.
The scrutiny of Hegseth’s role has intensified recently due to reports concerning his involvement in Signal group chats where military strike plans were discussed and the subsequent dismissal of several senior advisors, including Dan Caldwell, Darin Selnick, and Colin Carroll. Former Pentagon communications official John Ullyot criticized these actions as “baffling” and a significant distraction for the President.
Despite this criticism, the White House has consistently voiced its support for Hegseth. Vice President JD Vance and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt have both publicly refuted reports suggesting potential replacement considerations, labeling such accounts as a “smear campaign.”
“Let me reiterate: The president stands strongly behind Secretary Hegseth and the change that he is bringing to the Pentagon, and the results that he’s achieved thus far speak for themselves,” Leavitt stated.
