Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) tore into Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a fiery Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on Wednesday, blasting him over reports that a far-right social media figure may have influenced high-level military decisions.
Rosen grilled Hegseth about whether he had taken advice from conspiracy theorist and MAGA activist Laura Loomer before removing General Timothy Haugh.
“Public reports indicate that the removal of General [Timothy Haugh], who has served his country proudly, has been influenced by a social media influencer,” Rosen said. “An influencer personality on social media, Laura Loomer spreads conspiracy theories, and she’s been denounced even by Republicans.”
Rosen called the idea of military leaders being swayed by influencers “alarming” and “not how we should be running our military.”
Hegseth pushed back, saying, “Anyone coming or going at the Defense Department, especially at that level, would ultimately be a decision made by me, and I stand behind that.”
But Rosen didn’t let up. “Did you discuss General Haugh’s dismissal with Laura Loomer prior to his removal?”
“I don’t discuss who I talk about anything with,” Hegseth replied. “But ultimately this is my decision, and he serves at the pleasure of the President, and that’s why he’s no longer there.”
Rosen pressed again: “So do you believe it’s appropriate for any social media personality to influence personnel decisions in your department? Yes or no?”
“I believe your time is up, Senator,” Hegseth said, smirking.
That set Rosen off.
“Oh, it is not up to you to tell me when my time is up,” she shot back. “And I am going to say, Mr. Secretary, you’re either feckless or complicit. You’re not in control of your department. It is unserious. It is shocking. You’re not combating anti-Semitism within your ranks.”
“Mr. Chairman. I yield back, and I don’t appreciate the smirk, sir,” she added.
The exchange made waves, with Rosen’s rebuke highlighting deep concerns over political interference and growing frustration over leadership inside the Pentagon.
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