Senator Tillis Criticizes Defense Secretary Hegseth Over Leadership and Drinking Rumors

Senator Thom Tillis posted a tribute to former Army Secretary Dan Driscoll before turning his criticism toward Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, accusing him of fostering a leadership gap at the top of the military. Tillis used wording such as “ginning up” and “soberly attending” that observers read as veiled references to Hegseth’s alleged alcohol use. He urged the president to appoint a new Pentagon leader, citing one outlet's story that listed over 20 military and civilian dismissals during Hegseth’s tenure.

The White House spokesperson Anna Kelly reiterated the president’s confidence in Hegseth, and the Pentagon said it had nothing to add. Past allegations about Hegseth’s drinking have surfaced from his ex-wife, former one outlet colleagues, and a New Yorker report, which he has denied. Tillis, who will not seek re-election, has also announced a forthcoming memoir critical of the administration.