Hegseth criticized for locking Democrats out of closed-door defense budget talks
Summary
Republican senators have criticized Pentagon official Pete Hegseth for excluding Democrats from secret meetings about the defense budget. This division may make it harder to pass President Donald Trump’s proposed $1.5 trillion military budget increase, since Democratic votes are still needed.Key Facts
- Pete Hegseth has held closed-door meetings on the defense budget that Democrats were not allowed to attend.
- Some Republican senators, like Thom Tillis and Mike Rounds, say Democrats should be included to build support.
- Senate Democrats have threatened to oppose the defense funding bills if excluded.
- President Trump’s proposed defense budget includes a record $1.5 trillion increase.
- The Pentagon says its leaders regularly meet with lawmakers to discuss defense priorities.
- Senator Lisa Murkowski supports holding bipartisan briefings with both parties present.
- Hegseth previously criticized congressional Democrats for hindering efforts on Iran policy.
- There is concern that classified information might be leaked if the briefings are more open.
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