Krishnamoorthi Demands Hegseth Resign Over Signal Leak Fiasco

Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois publicly called for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to step down Tuesday after a leaked Signal chat exposed U.S. airstrike plans on Yemen. The encrypted app conversation included The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg raising serious questions about Pentagon security. Krishnamoorthi argued the breach undermines trust in Hegseth’s leadership at a critical time for national defense.

The Senate Intelligence Committee grilled Hegseth’s team Tuesday over how such sensitive plans ended up in a journalist’s hands. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and CIA Director John Ratcliffe faced tough questions about oversight failures. FBI Director Kash Patel also testified as lawmakers demanded accountability for the lapse that stunned Washington.

On Wednesday the House Intelligence Committee will hear from Gabbard Ratcliffe and Patel again at its annual threats hearing. The session was already scheduled but now carries extra weight after the Signal debacle. Lawmakers want to know how the Trump administration plans to prevent future leaks that could jeopardize military operations.

Krishnamoorthi a vocal Democrat on security issues said Hegseth’s resignation is essential to restore confidence. He pointed to the Yemen strike leak as evidence of reckless handling of classified data under Hegseth’s watch. The congressman urged President Trump to act swiftly to replace him with someone capable of safeguarding secrets.

The leaked chat reportedly detailed a planned strike on Houthi targets in Yemen linked to Iran-backed attacks. Its exposure has sparked outrage among lawmakers who fear it could tip off adversaries. Pentagon officials have stayed mum on whether the operation will proceed though sources say it’s now under urgent review.

Critics argue Hegseth’s tenure has been plagued by controversy from the start. His nomination drew scrutiny over his hardline views and lack of traditional experience. This latest scandal has fueled calls from Democrats and some Republicans for a leadership shakeup at the Defense Department.

National security experts warn the breach could embolden groups like the Houthis. They say it exposes vulnerabilities in how the Trump administration handles sensitive communications. Progressive voices have seized on the incident to push for stronger oversight of military and intelligence agencies.

For now Hegseth remains in his post as pressure mounts from Capitol Hill. Krishnamoorthi’s demand adds to a growing chorus questioning his fitness to lead. Whether Trump stands by his embattled defense chief or bows to the uproar could shape the administration’s credibility on security matters moving forward.