Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing growing scrutiny following reports that his wife, Jennifer Hegseth, was included in a private group chat where sensitive information about U.S. military operations was shared — despite not holding any formal role or confirmed security clearance within the Department of Defense.
The controversy erupted over the weekend after it was reported that Jennifer Hegseth was part of a Signal group chat with her husband, his brother, and his lawyer — both of whom have official roles at the Pentagon — in which the defense secretary discussed U.S. military actions against the Houthi rebels.
While a Pentagon spokesperson said they do not comment on individuals’ security clearance status, they emphasized that Jennifer Hegseth has never participated in meetings where classified information was discussed. However, her involvement in the group chat and her visible presence alongside Secretary Hegseth in official settings have raised concerns over her informal influence and the blurring of professional boundaries.
Jennifer Hegseth, a former Fox News producer, has been a close advisor to her husband since before his Cabinet confirmation. She reportedly played a role in shaping his media strategy and helped build out his public affairs team. According to one U.S. official, both Hegseths share a deep distrust of media outlets outside of Fox News.
Her active involvement in the defense secretary’s daily affairs has unsettled officials within the Pentagon and on Capitol Hill. A Senate aide told CNN that Jennifer Hegseth’s attendance at all of her husband’s confirmation meetings with Republican senators was highly unusual, adding that her presence altered the tone of sensitive conversations, particularly those related to past allegations against the nominee.
The situation has drawn criticism from former defense officials as well. One former senior Pentagon official called her presence in internal and international meetings “unprecedented,” noting that it could impact trust among foreign allies. Jennifer Hegseth even attended a bilateral meeting in March with UK Defense Secretary John Healey, though she left before classified discussions began, according to the Pentagon.
Critics warn that Hegseth’s informal but influential role could erode confidence in the U.S. defense leadership. “It raises serious concerns that Hegseth doesn’t understand the boundaries between his personal and professional life,” said Greg Williams of the Project on Government Oversight.
Despite the growing backlash, Pentagon officials have praised Jennifer Hegseth’s support, with press secretary Kingsley Wilson describing her as “an incredibly accomplished woman and leader” and “a trusted adviser to her husband.”
Still, questions remain over the appropriateness of her access and involvement, as lawmakers and officials await further clarification from the Department of Defense.
