Secretary Hegseth Dismisses New Group Chat Allegations: 'None of This Is Based in Reality'

Washington, D.C. – Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth appeared on Fox & Friends this morning to address recent allegations surrounding a leaked group chat involving senior defense officials, firmly rejecting the claims as unfounded and politically motivated.

“None of this is based in reality,” Hegseth said during the live segment. “This is an orchestrated distraction aimed at undermining the work we’re doing at the Department of Defense.”

The controversy emerged following reports that a private group chat among high-level Pentagon officials contained sensitive information and off-the-record commentary. As part of an internal investigation into the leak, several officials were placed on administrative leave pending review.

Secretary Hegseth confirmed the investigation is ongoing but emphasized that accountability would be applied fairly and without prejudice. He dismissed speculation that the suspensions reflect instability within the Department of Defense.

“Leadership means confronting issues head-on, not hiding from them,” Hegseth stated. “We’re cooperating fully with the inquiry, and we’re going to get to the bottom of it.”

In response to criticism from a former DOD official who accused Hegseth of fostering a "toxic culture of loyalty tests and ideology over expertise," the Secretary pushed back, calling the claims "baseless and bitter."

“We have a mission to defend this country, and we’re doing it with integrity and focus,” he said. “The real work speaks for itself.”

As the investigation continues, Secretary Hegseth reiterated his commitment to transparency and maintaining the operational readiness of the U.S. military.