Hegseth Blasts Media, ‘Disgruntled Former Employees’ Over Signal Controversy

arguing that such claims were designed to damage reputations. Hegseth added that he remains focused on what he described as reforming the U. S.

Department of Defense and strengthening military leadership. He also noted he had spoken directly with Trump and confirmed they were “on the same page” moving forward.

Meanwhile, Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, denied a report from NPR suggesting the administration had begun exploring a replacement for Hegseth. Leavitt called the report inaccurate and reiterated that Trump continues to support the defense secretary. The White House’s rapid response communications team also criticized the report, labeling it misleading and based on anonymous sourcing.