House Democrats Demand Pete Hegseth Resign Over Leaked Military Plans

House Democrats led by Rep. Adam Smith are demanding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth resign after he shared sensitive military plans in a group chat. The breach revealed details of a Yemen strike hours before it unfolded raising alarms about national security under his leadership. Critics argue the incident proves Hegseth unfit to helm the Pentagon as President Trump stands by his embattled appointee.

The controversy erupted when The Atlantic published texts showing Hegseth disclosing strike timing and weaponry to a private Signal chat. Reportedly a journalist was mistakenly included exposing the plans two hours before bombs dropped on Houthi targets. Democrats seized on the leak accusing Hegseth of endangering troops and compromising operations.

Hegseth a former Fox News host and Army veteran has faced a rocky tenure since taking the Pentagon’s reins in January. He defends his actions as a misstep not malice vowing to tighten security protocols moving forward. President Trump has doubled down calling the uproar a partisan smear while praising Hegseth’s warrior ethos.

Smith the ranking Democrat on the Armed Services Committee blasted Hegseth for defending the indefensible instead of fixing the breach. Other lawmakers echo this charging that his casual handling of classified data reflects broader incompetence. They warn such lapses could embolden enemies at a time of global tension.

The Pentagon insists no classified material was shared though the incident has sparked a Senate probe into internal safeguards. Hegseth’s allies argue the plans were vague and the leak overhyped by political foes eager to undermine Trump’s agenda. Still the episode has fueled doubts about his readiness for the high-stakes role.

His confirmation was already contentious with allegations of misconduct and skepticism over his hardline stances on military culture. The Yemen leak has reignited those concerns with some Republicans quietly questioning his judgment. Yet Trump’s firm backing suggests Hegseth’s job is safe for now barring further missteps.

Military experts say the real damage lies in eroded trust among allies and troops who rely on discretion at the top. Calls for accountability grow as Democrats press for hearings to grill Hegseth on what they call a pattern of recklessness. The scandal tests Trump’s pledge to shake up the Pentagon with outsiders like Hegseth.

For now Hegseth digs in promising to restore confidence while dismissing resignation demands as leftist noise. The fallout underscores the steep learning curve he faces in a job demanding precision over bravado. As investigations loom his fate may hinge on whether this proves an isolated blunder or a sign of deeper flaws.