Pete Hegseth's Easter rant sparks hilarious reaction from kids around him

Washington D.C.: The Pentagon is embroiled in another controversy as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces mounting criticism over reports that he shared sensitive military information in an unsecured Signal group chat, which included his wife, brother, and personal lawyer.

The latest allegations, reported by The New York Times, claim operational details about US airstrikes in Yemen were discussed in the encrypted chat — raising concerns about security breaches.

Speaking at the White House Easter Egg Roll on Sunday, Hegseth has dismissed the claims as "anonymous smears" from "disgruntled former employees", accusing the media of peddling "fake news". But what really catche sthe eye on that video is the expression of the children standing behind Hegseth, a hilatious mixture of befuddlement and outright confusion at this animated adult droning on about the fake media.

However, the Pentagon’s acting inspector general has launched an investigation. Meanwhile, Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have called for Hegseth’s removal, citing reckless judgment.

ALSO READ

Fort McCoy commander is suspended after bizarre photo 'scandal'

More Democrats jump on the Kilmar Garcia bandwagon as all roads lead to sunny El Salvador

The controversy follows the abrupt firing of three of Hegseth’s top advisers last week amid a leak probe. The ousted officials — Dan Caldwell, Colin Carroll, and Darren Selnick — denied wrongdoing in a joint statement, claiming they were never informed of the allegations against them.

President Trump has publicly backed Hegseth, dismissing the scandal as "old news." But bipartisan concern is growing, with Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) becoming the first GOP lawmaker to suggest Hegseth should be fired, accusing him of acting "above the law."