Congress intensifies scrutiny of Pete Hegseth over boat accidents

WASHINGTON Earlier this year, Pete Hegseth narrowly passed a challenging Senate confirmation to assume the role of Secretary of Defense, overcoming skepticism from lawmakers about his background as a Fox News host and concerns over his suitability for the position. Only a few months into his tenure, Hegseth became entangled in the Signalgate controversy, where he and other top officials used the Signal messaging app to discuss planned military operations in Yemen.

Now, Hegseth confronts heightened scrutiny after reports emerged of a special operations strike targeting survivors from an alleged drug boat off Venezuelas coast. Critics, including some members of Congress and legal experts, argue that the follow-up attack may have violated the laws of armed conflict.

These are serious allegations, and they demand focused oversight, stated Senator Roger Wicker, Republican chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee. The scrutiny has highlighted growing congressional unease over President Trumps selection to lead the U.S. military and presents a defining moment for Hegseth as investigators examine the incident and Democratic senators call for his resignation.

Hegseths Warrior Culture Approach Under Fire

Since his confirmation, Hegseth has promoted a so-called warrior culture within the Department of Defense, emphasizing aggressive operational tactics and questioning traditional rules of engagement. Defending the strike, Hegseth cited the fog of war, claiming he did not see any survivors in the water at the time of the second attack. He criticized those questioning his actions, framing them as part of the problem.

The approach aligns with Hegseths leadership style. A former Army National Guard infantry officer decorated with Bronze Stars, he previously deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. In a September address to senior military leaders, Hegseth urged a departure from restrictive rules of engagement, advocating for what he called maximum lethality and operational flexibility for U.S. forces.

However, many lawmakers and experts contend the September 2 strike may constitute illegal military action. Senator Thom Tillis called the decision horrible and emphasized accountability, while Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen labeled it an extrajudicial killing, demanding Hegseths resignation. Republican Representative Don Bacon, a retired Air Force brigadier general, expressed doubts about Hegseths readiness for the role.

Congressional Oversight and Political Divides

While President Trump continues to back Hegseth, congressional leaders have launched investigations into the boat strikes, signaling a rare assertion of legislative oversight. Senate Majority Leader John Thune defended the actions as within presidential authority but stopped short of personally evaluating Hegseths performance.

Hegseth retains allies in Congress, including Vice President JD Vance, who cast the decisive vote confirming him, and Senator Eric Schmitt, who dismissed criticism as politically motivated. Nevertheless, tensions persist between some Republican lawmakers and the Pentagon over communication restrictions and slow reporting on operations against drug trafficking vessels near Venezuela.

Hegseth has engaged directly with Senators Wicker and Mike Rogers, the key military oversight chairs. Rogers indicated satisfaction with Hegseths responses, while Wicker requested that he testify before Congress. A social media post from Hegseth featuring a cartoon turtle targeting a boat drew widespread condemnation, including from Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, who called it unprofessional and embarrassing.

Upcoming Hearings and Continuing Controversy

This week, armed services committee leaders plan to hear testimony from Navy Vice Admiral Frank Mitch Bradley, who the White House reports ordered the follow-up strike. While Republican members await further investigation, Democrats highlight that concerns about Hegseths judgment date back to his confirmation hearing, citing issues with nonprofit management, allegations of misconduct, and previous alcohol use despite his pledge to abstain.

Senator Tim Kaine noted that confirmation does not change a persons character, suggesting that Hegseths prior behavior now carries potentially more serious implications for his role as defense secretary.

Author: Zoe Harrison