The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell

Hegseth faces calls to resign over boat strikes, Signalgate

Dec 6, 2025
John Garamendi, a U.S. Representative from California, discusses shocking footage of military boat strikes and urges public hearings for accountability. Rachel Van Landingham, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel, analyzes the legal implications of the strikes, highlighting potential violations. Melanie Stansbury delves into the looming health care crisis, attributing it to Republican policy failures. Michael McFaul, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, emphasizes the need for strong support against Putin's ambitions in Ukraine as diplomatic efforts falter.
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INSIGHT

Pentagon Crisis Over Boat Strikes

  • Pete Hegseth's actions prompted bipartisan calls for resignation amid evidence he shared sensitive military intelligence on Signal.
  • Lawmakers say unexplained boat strikes and shifting stories raise serious legal and moral concerns about Pentagon conduct.
INSIGHT

Explosive Strikes, No Public Evidence

  • At least 86 people died in 22 U.S. boat strikes this year with no publicly released evidence linking them to drug smuggling.
  • Critics argue releasing only dramatic footage without documentation undermines accountability and international law.
ADVICE

Build Strong Foundation Before Hearings

  • Conduct thorough investigative hearings by building a detailed record with lower-level witnesses under oath before questioning senior officials.
  • Use that foundation to confront leaders like the defense secretary with verified testimony and evidence.
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