Congress intensifies scrutiny of Pete Hegseth over boat collisions

Pete Hegseth narrowly passed a contentious Senate confirmation earlier this year to become Secretary of Defense, with lawmakers expressing doubts about his experience, temperament, and suitability for the role. Just three months into his tenure, he became involved in the Signalgate controversy, using the Signal messaging app to discuss pending military actions in Yemen with other senior officials.

Hegseth is now under heightened scrutiny after reports emerged that a special operations team attacked survivors of a strike on an alleged drug boat near Venezuela. Some legal authorities and members of Congress contend the second strike may have breached international armed conflict laws.

Sen. Roger Wicker, Republican chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, These are serious charges, and thats why special oversight is necessary. Hegseths confrontational leadership style has reignited longstanding concerns in Congress over President Trumps selection to lead the Pentagon, prompting calls from Democratic senators for his resignation and the launch of formal investigations.

Hegseths Warrior Culture Approach

Since assuming office, Hegseth has promoted a so-called warrior culture within the Department of Defense, advocating for greater operational flexibility and less adherence to traditional rules of engagement. In defending the recent strike, he cited the fog of war, claiming he did not see survivors in the water when the follow-up attack was authorized and criticizing critics as part of the problem.

Hegseth, a former Army National Guard infantry officer with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, reinforced this philosophy in a September address to military leaders at Quantico, urging them to avoid restrictive rules and prioritize lethality and authority in operations. Critics, however, argue that the September 2 strike may constitute illegal military action.

Sen. Thom Tillis, a Republican who narrowly supported Hegseths confirmation, stated, Somebody made a horrible decision. Somebody needs to be held accountable. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, a Democrat, described the attack as extrajudicial killing amounting to murder or a war crime and demanded Hegseths resignation. Former Air Force Brig. Gen. Don Bacon also questioned Hegseths capability to lead the Pentagon effectively.

Trumps Support and Congressional Oversight

President Trump has largely maintained support for Hegseth, one of the administrations most prominent Cabinet officials. Yet, bipartisan congressional investigations into the boat strikes highlight lawmakers asserting oversight over military actions. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, who supported Hegseths confirmation, noted the strikes fall within presidential authority and emphasized that Hegseth serves at the presidents discretion.

Hegseth retains allies on Capitol Hill, including Vice President JD Vance, who cast the tie-breaking vote for his confirmation, and Sen. Eric Schmitt, who dismissed criticism as politically motivated. Still, tensions with some Republicans and frustration over restricted communication between defense officials and Congress have been rising for months.

Political Fallout and Public Perception

Hegseth initially tried to downplay the boat strike reports with a cartoon image on social media, which angered lawmakers and intensified criticism. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer called him a national embarrassment, condemning the social media post as inappropriate for a serious leader.

In the coming days, congressional armed services committees will receive private testimony from Navy Vice Adm. Frank Mitch Bradley, reportedly responsible for ordering the second strike. Democrats argue that Hegseths challenges were foreseeable, pointing to his contentious confirmation hearing, prior allegations, and questions about his judgment and character.

Sen. Tim Kaine remarked, You dont suddenly change your judgment level or character when you become Secretary of Defense. Past behaviors can become much more significant in such a position. The ongoing investigations may determine whether Hegseths tenure faces a turning point amid mounting legal, political, and ethical concerns.

Author: Connor Blake