Post Reports Hegseth in turmoil, Trump’s sinking polls
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Apr 25, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Abigail Hauslohner, a national security reporter for The Washington Post, and Dan Balz, chief political correspondent for the same publication, dive into the turmoil surrounding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's use of the Signal app for sensitive communications. They highlight the resulting security concerns within the Pentagon and reveal troubling new polling for Trump, showing a decline in support for his immigration policies. The conversation also explores the internal struggles within the Republican Party around accountability and loyalty.
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Hegseth’s Risky Signal Usage
- Pete Hegseth's use of Signal to share sensitive military info outside classified channels creates major security risks.
- His continued mishandling undermines Pentagon stability and questions his suitability as Defense Secretary.
Pentagon Chaos Under Hegseth
- Pentagon insiders report chaos and infighting under Hegseth's leadership, with multiple dismissed top aides.
- This turmoil signals serious troubles for department management and fuels skepticism about Hegseth's competence.
Trump Support Shields Hegseth
- Trump's administration is unlikely to remove Hegseth as long as Trump strongly supports him.
- Political loyalty trumps competence concerns until public pressure forces change.