WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth called for the immediate dismissal of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Friday, citing serious security concerns after reports surfaced that Hegseth used a personal computer connected to an unsecured line for official communications.
Duckworth, an Iraq War veteran and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, posted on social media that Hegseth’s actions put American troops at greater risk and labeled him an “unqualified trainwreck” who must be removed from office.
Key Points
- Senator Tammy Duckworth called for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to be fired.
- Reports say Hegseth used an unsecured personal computer for official communications via Signal app.
- Duckworth warned that the breach could endanger U.S. troops’ safety.
Security breach fuels bipartisan concern in Washington
The controversy erupted after ABC News reported Thursday that Hegseth used the encrypted messaging app Signal on a personal computer inside his Pentagon office, which was connected to a “dirty line” — an unsecured commercial internet line separate from secure government networks.
Two sources confirmed to ABC News that the use of the unsecured device raised significant concerns about potential exposure of classified or sensitive information.
Duckworth reacted forcefully Friday, posting, “Every single day this unqualified trainwreck stays in this job is another day our troops are at greater risk.”
Pentagon silent as calls for resignation grow
As of Friday afternoon, the Pentagon had not issued a formal response to the allegations or Duckworth’s statement. It remains unclear whether Hegseth will face any administrative action or internal investigation related to the reported security lapses.
No evidence has been released indicating that classified material was compromised, but national security experts expressed alarm over the potential vulnerabilities introduced by Hegseth’s actions.
Critics say the use of non-secure communications by top defense officials violates established protocols designed to safeguard sensitive information.
Political pressure mounts amid rising national security fears
Lawmakers from both parties are now expected to seek further information on the breach, and hearings could be scheduled in the coming weeks to address broader concerns about cybersecurity practices at the Pentagon.
Hegseth, a former Fox News contributor, was appointed by President Biden earlier this year, a decision that drew controversy due to his limited traditional defense experience.
An explosive call from Sen. Tammy Duckworth puts intense heat on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after a serious Pentagon security breach.