Hegseth Grilled by Congress Over Troop Deployment

Hegseth Faces Lawmakers Over Los Angeles Troop Move

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced tough scrutiny in Congress on Tuesday. Lawmakers pressed him on sending Marines and National Guard troops to Los Angeles. The move followed protests tied to immigration raids.

Hegseth appeared before the House Defense Appropriations subcommittee. This was their first chance to question him since his Senate confirmation.

Hearing Highlights Pentagon Leadership and Policy Shifts

The hearing spotlighted early turmoil at the Pentagon. Hegseth recently fired key military leaders. He also pushed out diversity programs. Tensions have grown within defense circles and Congress.

Members from both parties said his leadership has meant “endless chaos.” Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., spoke bluntly to Hegseth. Republicans joined in warnings, especially on large new spending plans.

Congress Demands Clarity on Defense Budget and Spending

The full defense budget is still missing from the Trump administration. Lawmakers from both sides expressed mounting frustration. President Trump’s $1 trillion proposal represents a sharp hike over last year’s $800 billion.

Major projects also created headaches for Congress. These include a $175 billion missile defense dome and millions for an Army parade synced with Trump’s birthday.

Lawmakers Criticize Troop Deployment, Program Purges

Rep. Betty McCollum, D-Minn., grilled Hegseth about sending 700 Marines and over 4,100 National Guard troops to Los Angeles. The objective: Guard federal buildings during protests.

Hegseth sidestepped on costs. After repeated probing, Acting Comptroller Bryn Woollacott MacDonnell gave the number: $134 million. Debate grew tense, especially on use of military for domestic security.

Hegseth Defends Military Presence and Cost in Los Angeles

Hegseth stood by the deployment. He said forces were needed to protect federal agents. He hinted at a broader role for the Guard and reserves in homeland security.

He said, “We’re entering another phase” and suggested the Guard would become central in protecting American soil.

Marine Corps Chief Downplays Use-of-Force Concerns

Gen. Eric Smith, Marine Corps Commandant, also testified. He said the 700 Marines in Los Angeles had not yet engaged. When Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., asked about possible injuries or deaths, Smith said he had “great faith” in his Marines to uphold lawful orders.

Current rules under the Posse Comitatus Act limit military policing. The rarely-used Insurrection Act would allow it, but it’s unclear if Trump will invoke it.

Committee Probes Ukraine Drone Strike, Pentagon Response

Lawmakers raised Ukraine’s recent drone operation against Russian bombers. Hegseth admitted the U.S. was surprised. The attack forced a Pentagon review of drone defenses.

He said, “We are learning every day from Ukraine.” The focus now is better protection for U.S. airfields.

Hegseth Prioritizes Social Changes, Faces Criticism

Much of Hegseth’s tenure has centered on internal Pentagon changes. He’s led a purge of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. He’s posted videos of removing transgender personnel and firing “woke” generals, including several women.

Critics note his silence on global crises, including Russia, Ukraine, Israel, and Iran. International trips have been brief or skipped.

Removal of Diversity Programs Draws Congressional Scrutiny

Lawmakers zeroed in on the decision to rename a Navy ship. The vessel had honored Harvey Milk, a noted gay rights activist. Hegseth’s team said names must match “commander-in-chief’s priorities” and “warrior ethos.”

Many in Congress argued these moves damage morale and recruitment. The issue has sparked heated debate on Capitol Hill.

Uncertainty Grows Over Future Defense Policy and Oversight

Hegseth’s hearing is just one of three this week. Congress signals more hard questions ahead on military spending, leadership, and policy. Lawmakers have little patience for delays or evasion.

The next steps: pressure will mount on the Pentagon to clarify its direction, costs, and commitments, both at home and abroad.