The Pentagon’s internal watchdog has determined that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth endangered U.S. personnel and missions by utilizing the Signal messaging app to share sensitive information regarding a military operation against Yemen’s Houthi militants. This assessment comes from two individuals familiar with the findings, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the confidential nature of the report.
While the investigation did not conclude that Hegseth improperly declassified information—something he is authorized to do—the report highlighted a violation of Pentagon policy regarding the use of personal devices for official communications. The findings recommend enhanced training for Pentagon officials about the appropriate handling of sensitive information.
In response to the investigation, Hegseth opted not to participate in an interview with the Pentagon’s inspector general but submitted a written statement. He defended his actions by asserting that he acted within his rights to declassify information as necessary and claimed that he only shared details that would not jeopardize the mission.
This scrutiny comes after lawmakers called for an independent inquiry into Hegseth’s usage of the app, which is commercially available and not specifically designed for secure government communications. The pressure on the former Fox News Channel host continues to mount as the implications of the report unfold.
Trump Administration Developments
In related news, former President Donald Trump made headlines on the same day with a series of controversial actions. He granted a pardon to Texas Democratic Representative Henry Cuellar and his wife in a federal bribery and conspiracy case, citing a “weaponized” justice system. Trump accused the Cuellars of facing prosecution due to the congressman’s critical stance on President Joe Biden’s immigration policies.
Additionally, Trump unveiled a proposal aimed at easing vehicle mileage regulations for the auto industry. If enacted, this move would reverse current environmental standards, allowing for lower fuel efficiency in new vehicles. Under the proposed changes, the fleet average for light-duty vehicles would drop to approximately 34.5 miles per gallon by the 2031 model year, a significant decrease from the 50.4 miles per gallon projected under Biden-era rules.
The legal landscape surrounding Trump also shifted as the Republican-led House Judiciary Committee issued a subpoena to former Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith. Smith is scheduled for a closed-door interview on December 17, despite having previously volunteered to testify in an open session regarding his investigations into Trump.
These developments illustrate the ongoing complexities and controversies surrounding the Trump administration as it navigates legal challenges and policy shifts.
