Former First Lady Michelle Obama shared intimate details about her parenting journey and personal growth while raising her daughters Malia and Sasha.

According to Daily Mail, the 61-year-old mother of two admitted on her podcast "IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson" that she previously used spanking as a disciplinary method but later abandoned the practice after feeling embarrassed about her actions.

Obama's candid discussion with her brother Craig Robinson and guests Damon and Marlon Wayans highlighted her evolution as a parent. She described feeling uncomfortable with physical discipline after realizing it wasn't an effective way to communicate with her children.

Michelle Obama's journey toward positive parenting methods

The former First Lady expressed how the experience made her reflect deeply on her parenting approach. She acknowledged feeling silly about using physical punishment and questioned whether it was the best way to handle disciplinary situations with her daughters.

Michelle Obama said the decision to stop spanking came after several incidents that made her reconsider her methods. The mother of Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23, emphasized that her changed perspective wasn't meant to criticize other parents' choices.

Her brother, Craig Robinson, joined her in the conversation, creating a platform for an honest discussion about generational differences in parenting styles. The podcast episode provided insights into the challenges parents face when deciding how to discipline their children effectively.

Setting boundaries without physical discipline

Obama spoke about her continued belief in maintaining clear boundaries with children. She explained why some traditional parenting values remain important to her despite moving away from physical punishment.

The former First Lady shared this perspective from Obama:

I want to be a proponent for reinstating some of the stuff that we had. Parents are too afraid to set those kinds of boundaries. And I think that's also part of the challenge that we're facing in this generation.

Her approach to discipline now focuses on consistency and clarity rather than physical punishment. She uses humor to illustrate her points about setting limits, such as teaching children appropriate ways to express frustration.

Impact on modern parenting discussions

The podcast conversation sparked significant online dialogue about disciplinary methods. Many parents related to Obama's experience and her decision to change her approach to discipline. Obama's willingness to share her personal parenting challenges has resonated with many families facing similar decisions. Her evolution as a parent demonstrates how perspectives on discipline can change over time.

The former First Lady emphasized that perfect parenting doesn't exist, but continuous learning and adaptation are essential. She encouraged parents to remain open to growing and changing their approaches when necessary.

Looking back at meaningful change

Michelle Obama's revelation about spanking her daughters marked an important moment of transparency about parenting challenges. The former First Lady shared this experience during a podcast discussion with her brother Craig Robinson and the Wayans brothers.

The conversation highlighted how Obama's parenting style evolved as she raised Malia and Sasha with former President Barack Obama. Her decision to stop using physical discipline reflected a broader personal journey toward finding more effective ways to guide and nurture her children while maintaining necessary boundaries.

A new poll reveals overwhelming support for President Donald Trump in a hypothetical 2028 Republican primary race despite constitutional barriers preventing him from seeking a third term.

According to Daily Mail, Trump secured 39 percent of Republican support in a Daily Mail/J.L. Partners survey that explored voters' preferences for the next presidential election cycle, assuming constitutional hurdles were cleared.

The poll, conducted between April 23 and 28, showed Trump maintaining a significant lead over other potential candidates, including his own Vice President J.D. Vance, who received 19 percent support. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley trailed with 6 and 4 percent, respectively, while current Secretary of State Marco Rubio garnered 3 percent of Republican backing.

Constitutional challenges block Trump's potential return

The 22nd Amendment currently prevents Trump from seeking a third presidential term. Republican lawmakers would need to initiate a complex process to modify the Constitution, requiring support from two-thirds of both congressional houses or a national convention called by two-thirds of states. The amendment would then need ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures or special conventions.

Recent developments suggest a growing interest in the possibility of Trump's 2028 bid. The Trump store recently launched "Trump 2028" merchandise, selling hats for $50 each. This move has sparked debate about whether it represents a serious push for constitutional change or merely serves as political messaging.

The survey results indicate strong loyalty among Trump's base, even as questions about his eligibility persist. Several other potential candidates received minimal support, including Ted Cruz and Glenn Youngkin at 2 percent each.

Vice President Vance emerges as potential successor

Without Trump in the equation, Vice President J.D. Vance emerges as the clear frontrunner for the 2028 Republican nomination. The poll showed Vance receiving 48 percent support in a Trump-free scenario, with DeSantis following at a distant 8 percent.

Even in a scenario including Donald Trump Jr., Vance maintains his strong position with 40 percent support. The younger Trump received 11 percent backing, while DeSantis secured 10 percent of potential Republican primary voters.

The poll suggests Vance has successfully positioned himself as the heir apparent to the MAGA movement, significantly outperforming other prominent Republican figures, including Marco Rubio and Nikki Haley, who each received 5 percent support.

Future of Republican leadership takes shape

The survey revealed limited enthusiasm for several other potential candidates. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and New York Representative Elise Stefanik each received 1 percent or less support from Republican voters.

Political strategist Steve Bannon, who has maintained close ties with Trump, also failed to generate significant interest among potential primary voters. The poll had a margin of error of plus or minus 3.4 percent.

Republican vision for 2028 emerges

The Daily Mail/J.L. Partners survey provides crucial insights into the Republican Party's potential leadership trajectory heading toward 2028. President Trump continues to dominate Republican voter preferences, securing 39 percent support in a hypothetical primary scenario that assumes constitutional obstacles could be overcome.

Vice President J.D. Vance has established himself as the clear alternative to Trump, particularly evident in scenarios where the current president is excluded from consideration. The polling data suggests a strong continuation of the MAGA movement's influence on Republican politics, with traditional party figures like DeSantis, Haley, and Rubio struggling to build significant support bases for future presidential ambitions.

Virginia Democrat Gerry Connolly's battle with cancer takes an unexpected turn as he prepares to step away from his leadership roles in Congress.

According to Fox News, the nine-term congressman revealed on Monday that his cancer has returned, leading to his decision not to seek re-election and to relinquish his position as ranking member of the House Oversight Committee.

The 75-year-old representative's announcement comes approximately six months after his initial esophageal cancer diagnosis. Despite initially showing signs of improvement following intensive treatment, Connolly disclosed that the disease has resurfaced, prompting his difficult decision to conclude his three-decade-long career in public service.

Connolly's distinguished career and current role

The veteran lawmaker has been representing Virginia's 11th Congressional District, which encompasses the affluent suburbs surrounding the nation's capital, with a particular focus on Fairfax County. His political journey began in 1995 when he was first elected as a Fairfax County supervisor, establishing himself as a prominent figure in northern Virginia politics.

Throughout his tenure in Congress, Connolly has maintained a significant presence in oversight investigations, contributing to various legislative initiatives. His most recent electoral victory came against Republican challenger Mike Van Meter, a Navy veteran and former FBI agent.

In his statement to constituents, Connolly expressed:

After grueling treatments, we've learned that my cancer, while initially beaten back, has now returned. I'll do everything possible to continue to represent you and thank you for your grace. The sun is setting on my time in public service, and this will be my last term in Congress. I will be stepping back as Ranking Member of the Oversight Committee soon. With no rancor and a full heart, I move into this final chapter full of pride in what we've accomplished together over 30 years.

Support and recognition from colleagues

The announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from fellow lawmakers and colleagues. Senator Mark Warner, D-Va., offered a heartfelt tribute to his longtime colleague's dedication to public service and his resilient character.

Warner's statement emphasized Connolly's exceptional qualities as a public servant, highlighting his intelligence, principles, and unwavering commitment to his constituents. The senator specifically praised Connolly's advocacy for federal workers and his dedication to good governance.

Sen. Warner shared these words about his colleague:

Throughout his career, Gerry Connolly has exemplified the very best of public service — fiercely intelligent, deeply principled, and relentlessly committed to the people of Northern Virginia and our nation. Whether it's standing up for federal workers, advocating for good governance, or now confronting cancer with the same resilience and grit that have defined his life of public service, Gerry is one of the toughest fighters I know.

Political landscape and transitional period

The timing of Connolly's announcement creates significant implications for the Democratic Party's representation in northern Virginia. His departure will mark the end of an era in Virginia's 11th District, where he has maintained a strong presence for nearly a decade.

The transition will involve changes in leadership within the House Oversight Committee, where Connolly has played a crucial role. His stepping back from this position will require careful consideration for his replacement to maintain the committee's effectiveness.

Final chapter of dedicated service

Rep. Gerry Connolly's cancer diagnosis has led to his decision to conclude his extensive political career, which spans three decades of service to northern Virginia. The congressman will complete his current term while stepping back from his leadership position on the House Oversight Committee, marking the end of his nine-term tenure in Congress.

His forthcoming departure from Congress will create a vacancy in Virginia's 11th District, where he has served as a dedicated representative since his first election to the House. As Connolly focuses on his health and prepares for this transition, his legacy of public service and commitment to his constituents remains a testament to his impactful career in American politics.

President Donald Trump's latest comments about seeking a third term in office have sparked renewed discussions about presidential term limits and constitutional boundaries.

According to Fox News, Trump expressed his preference against using "loopholes" to pursue a third presidential term during a recent TIME interview, though he stopped short of completely ruling out the possibility.

The president's remarks come amid ongoing speculation about his political future and potential strategies to extend his time in office beyond the constitutional two-term limit. His statement marks a shift from his March interview with NBC News, where he notably refused to dismiss the idea of seeking a third term.

Trump allies push boundaries of term limits debate

Steve Bannon, Trump's former administration official, recently made headlines during an HBO appearance with Bill Maher by boldly predicting Trump's success in securing a third term. The controversial statement has intensified discussions about presidential succession and constitutional constraints.

A recent Reuters/Ipsos national survey revealed significant public opposition to the concept of a third Trump term. The poll, conducted between April 16-21, showed that three-quarters of respondents rejected the idea of Trump running for a third term.

The 22nd Amendment to the Constitution explicitly prohibits presidents from serving more than two terms in office, making any attempt to secure a third term legally impossible without constitutional changes.

Presidential cognitive abilities take center stage

When questioned about potentially running as J.D. Vance's vice president, Trump redirected the conversation to highlight his cognitive capabilities. He emphasized his perfect score on a recent cognitive assessment.

Trump stated his position on the cognitive test during the TIME interview:

I don't know anything about, what, look, all I can say is this, I am being inundated with requests. I'm doing a good job. Great physical exam, and unlike every other president, I took the cognitive test and I aced it 100% and I bet you guys couldn't get 100% on that exam. It's a tough exam. You know, when you get into the mid questions, it gets to be pretty tricky and pretty tough, and the last questions are very tough, and I aced it.

The president's focus on his cognitive abilities comes at a time when age and mental fitness have become increasingly important factors in political discourse.

Constitutional boundaries meet political ambition

The discussion about a potential third term has raised concerns among both Democratic and Republican lawmakers. Many view such suggestions as challenging fundamental constitutional principles.

Trump's age has also become a significant talking point in these discussions. At 82 years old by the end of his current term in 2029, he already holds the record as the oldest elected president in U.S. history.

Future of presidential leadership unfolds

President Donald Trump's recent statements about third-term possibilities have generated significant debate about constitutional limits and presidential succession. While expressing skepticism about using loopholes to extend his presidency, his comments during the Time Magazine interview have nonetheless intensified discussions about term limits and presidential power.

The matter continues to evolve as Trump serves his second non-consecutive term, with constitutional experts, political allies, and opponents closely monitoring developments regarding any potential challenges to the two-term limit established by the 22nd Amendment. The overwhelming public opposition to a third term, as demonstrated by the Reuters/Ipsos poll, suggests significant challenges to any efforts to extend presidential tenure beyond constitutional boundaries.

In April, the United States witnessed an unprecedented surge in customs duties, generating a staggering $15.4 billion in revenue and marking the highest monthly collection in the country's history.

This phenomenal increase, largely attributed to newly established tariffs under President Donald Trump's "America First" economic strategy, underscores a significant shift in fiscal policy, with U.S. customs duty collections in April growing by over 60%, as the Daily Caller reports.

On April 2, President Trump implemented significant tariffs, levying a 25% duty on steel imports and a 10% universal tariff on other goods. This policy move is an element of the broader economic agenda meant to bolster American manufacturing and reduce dependency on income taxes.

Rise in revenue observed

Compared to the previous month, the revenue from customs duties increased by $6 billion, evidencing a nearly 40% spike in daily collection rates. This increase not only highlights the immediate impact of Trump's tariffs but also sets a new benchmark in U.S. financial history. With these tariffs, the administration aims to pivot towards a revenue model reminiscent of pre-income tax America.

Historically, tariffs played a crucial role in the U.S. economic framework, especially before the 16th Amendment ushered income tax into the picture in 1913. The reliance on tariffs as a primary revenue source harkens back to an era that President Trump cites as a period of wealth for the nation. The shift in strategy aligns with Trump's assertion that the money from tariffs could potentially reduce the need for income taxes.

Assessing long-term impact

Despite the substantial revenue figures reported, there is a broader context of economic challenges. Currently, the United States faces a national debt exceeding $36 trillion, with a fiscal deficit of $1.31 trillion recorded in the first half of the year. While the hefty customs revenue contributes to federal coffers, the impact is relatively minor against this vast backdrop.

Economists are divided on the potential outcomes of Trump's trade policies. Mark Zandi, the chief economist at Moody's, remains skeptical, indicating that surpassing $100 billion to $200 billion in tariff revenue would be a considerable feat. The scale of the national debt and deficit underscores the complexity of addressing fiscal issues solely through tariff revenue.

Looking ahead to May collections

As per the projections, the full implementation of the universal 10% tariffs is expected to significantly influence revenue in May. Observers and analysts will meticulously watch the upcoming collection figures to gauge the enduring effects of the tariff policy. This anticipation is founded on the premise that the tariffs will further augment monthly income figures.

Trump's tariff policy is part of a broader initiative to bolster domestic production by shielding U.S. manufacturers from international competition. The administration contends that these measures will enable American industries to thrive by leveling the playing field. However, critics argue that the overall economic benefits remain questionable.

Weighing strategy's effectiveness

The implementation of tariffs has sparked discussions about the effectiveness of protectionist trade policies. While the administration celebrates the infusion of revenue, the strategy's long-term success hinges on sustaining competitive industries and reducing trade imbalances. The debate continues over whether these tariffs merely impose additional costs on consumers rather than fostering economic growth.

As the U.S. government navigates these fiscal dynamics, the role of tariffs remains a contentious subject. The evolving financial landscape presents challenges and opportunities for policymakers as they seek to align economic strategies with growth and stability objectives.

In addressing the national debt and deficit, the U.S. may consider a multifaceted approach encompassing revenue generation and fiscal management. As the nation grapples with these economic considerations, the tariff debate highlights the complexities of balancing immediate financial gains with broader economic aspirations.

The ability to achieve long-term fiscal stability rests on comprehensive policymaking, a balance of revenues, and strategic expenditure management. The trajectory of the nation's economic health depends significantly on these efforts, with tariffs continuing to play a pivotal role in the discourse surrounding America's financial future.

The federal government has abruptly changed its approach to the legal status of international students, halting terminations after a slew of legal challenges.

The Trump administration's decision follows a series of court orders demanding that the students’ records in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) database be restored, as Newsmax reports.

International students across the United States faced a sudden disruption when their legal status was terminated by the government without any notification to them or their educational institutions. This termination was followed by legal actions that prompted temporary court orders from judges across the country.

Courts instruct ICE to reinstate records

The judicial intervention required ICE, the agency managing these students' records through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), to revert the terminations. Attorneys involved in the proceedings reported that ICE had started the process of reinstating the records manually.

In Oakland, California, a government lawyer reported this manual reversal process, highlighting that the federal agency is now focusing on rectifying the issue caused by previous actions. Meanwhile, in Washington, attorney Brian Green echoed these sentiments, affirming that officials have committed to amending the status of those affected.

New termination policy created

The terminations were reportedly linked to findings in the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), a database managed by the FBI. This abrupt change led to discoveries by academic institutions, often made through routine checks or as reactions to other recent similar cases.

In response to the controversy, ICE announced the creation of a specific policy framework regarding the management of SEVIS records. This proposed framework is aimed at preventing haphazard terminations and ensuring a more systematic approach to status changes.

Improved notification system promised

According to the government’s legal representatives, until the new policy is established, SEVIS records will remain active or be reactivated if necessary. A crucial element of this interim measure is the assurance from ICE that records will not be altered based solely on NCIC database alerts, which had triggered the recent status terminations.

The situation unfolded suddenly as schools and students across the nation were blindsided by the unexpected changes. Many educational institutions learned of the terminations incidentally while performing regular administrative checks or hearing about similar incidents from other institutions.

Efforts to address concerns underway

The abrupt and unexplained nature of these terminations led to widespread confusion and concern among international students who rely on their legal status to maintain their education and residency in the U.S. Legal interventions have played a pivotal role in reinstating these rights, reflecting a collective effort to resolve the administrative oversight.

The commitment from ICE to restore and maintain the active status of affected students signals an important shift in handling such sensitive matters. It indicates a recognition of the need for transparent and consistent policies governing the student visa program.

Formal framework awaited

While the current scenario is being managed manually, the development of a formal framework for SEVIS record management is expected to provide clarity and prevent similar issues in the future. The focus remains on safeguarding students' rights and ensuring their ability to pursue their educational aspirations without unjust interruptions.

This situation highlights the complexities involved in managing international student records and the critical need for clear communication between government agencies, educational institutions, and the students themselves. The challenges also serve as a reminder of the impact of administrative decisions on individuals' lives and careers.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's inner circle experienced another significant shake-up amid ongoing tension at the Pentagon.

According to the New York Post, Joe Kasper, who recently stepped down as Hegseth's chief of staff, has decided to leave the Department of Defense entirely and transition to the private sector, marking another high-profile departure in a series of recent staff changes.

The departure follows Kasper's involvement in launching an investigation into unauthorized leaks of classified information at the Pentagon. His exit coincides with the controversial dismissal of three senior Pentagon officials who were escorted from the building last week, highlighting growing internal conflicts within the department's leadership.

Heated confrontations over leaked information

Defense Secretary Hegseth's explosive reaction to news leaks reached a boiling point during a confrontation with military leadership. His anger was particularly directed at the unauthorized disclosure of Department of Government Efficiency chief Elon Musk's March visit to the Pentagon, which appeared in the New York Times.

The situation escalated when Hegseth reportedly confronted Admiral Christopher Grady, the then-acting Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The encounter revealed the intensity of the secretary's determination to identify the source of the leaks.

Lt. Gen. Doug Sims, the Joint Staff director, also faced similar confrontational treatment from Hegseth, who threatened both officials with polygraph tests. These dramatic exchanges underscore the deteriorating relationships within the Pentagon's top brass.

Internal power dynamics and staff dismissals

The dismissed officials—Dan Caldwell, Colin Carroll, and Darin Selnick—released a joint statement defending their integrity. In their words:

All three of us served our country honorably in uniform – for two of us, this included deployments to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. And, based on our collective service, we understand the importance of information security and worked every day to protect it. At this time, we still have not been told what exactly we were investigated for, if there is still an active investigation, or if there was even a real investigation of 'leaks' to begin with.

Sources familiar with the situation suggest that the dismissals stemmed from a power struggle involving Kasper. The former chief of staff reportedly felt threatened as his responsibilities were increasingly delegated to Selnick and Caldwell, particularly in areas such as appointment recommendations and high-level visit planning.

Kasper's March memo had suggested the possibility of implementing polygraph tests as part of the leak investigation. However, it remains unclear whether any staff members actually underwent such testing during the probe.

Office tensions lead to dramatic outcomes

The investigation's scope extended beyond just the Musk visit leak. Kasper's memo indicated a broader concern about the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive and classified information throughout the Department of Defense.

The situation has created significant uncertainty within the Pentagon's leadership structure. The departure of multiple senior officials within a short period has raised questions about the stability of Hegseth's team and its ability to maintain effective operations.

Breaking down the Pentagon upheaval

Joe Kasper's departure from the Pentagon marks a significant development in an ongoing internal conflict that has resulted in multiple high-level dismissals and allegations of unauthorized information leaks. The situation began with concerns over leaked information about Elon Musk's Pentagon visit and evolved into a broader investigation of potential security breaches.

The controversy has led to the removal of three senior Pentagon officials and exposed tensions within Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's leadership team. With Kasper's decision to leave for the private sector and the Pentagon's silence on the matter, questions remain about the long-term implications for the Department of Defense's internal operations and leadership structure.

President Donald Trump's recent criticism of Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell sparked widespread speculation about potential changes in the central bank's leadership.

According to Breitbart News, Trump firmly denied any intentions to remove Powell from his position during an Oval Office interaction with reporters on Tuesday, despite calling him a "major loser" in a Truth Social post just a day before.

The president's stance on Powell's leadership has been marked by persistent calls for more aggressive interest rate cuts. Trump expressed his desire for the Fed chairman to take swifter action on monetary policy, emphasizing the importance of timing in implementing rate reductions. His comments highlighted growing concerns about potential economic slowdown risks if interest rates remain elevated.

Trump's monetary policy demands intensify

During the Oval Office exchange, Trump elaborated on his expectations for the Federal Reserve's approach to interest rate management. He stressed that while Powell's potential inaction wouldn't be catastrophic, the current economic climate presents an ideal opportunity for rate cuts. The president's position reflects his broader economic strategy focused on maintaining growth momentum.

In his Monday Truth Social post, Trump outlined his perspective on current economic conditions and monetary policy needs. The president specifically referenced declining energy costs, lower food prices, and overall favorable inflation trends as justification for immediate rate cuts.

Trump made his position clear in the following statement:

Preemptive Cuts in Interest Rates are being called for by many. With Energy Costs way down, food prices (including Biden's egg disaster!) substantially lower, and most other "things" trending down, there is virtually No Inflation. With these costs trending so nicely downward, just what I predicted they would do, there can almost be no inflation, but there can be a SLOWING of the economy unless Mr. Too Late, a major loser, lowers interest rates, NOW.

European monetary policy comparison draws attention

The president highlighted the contrast between U.S. and European monetary policies. He pointed out that European central banks have already implemented seven rate reductions, suggesting that the Federal Reserve's more conservative approach might be leaving the U.S. economy at a disadvantage. This comparison has become a key element in Trump's criticism of Powell's leadership.

Powell's recent statements have indicated potential future rate increases, contradicting Trump's preferred policy direction. The Fed chairman has also expressed concerns about the inflationary impact of Trump's tariff policies, creating additional tension between the administration and the central bank.

These conflicting viewpoints have intensified discussions about the independence of the Federal Reserve and its relationship with the executive branch. The situation reflects ongoing debates about the optimal balance between political influence and monetary policy autonomy.

Federal Reserve leadership remains stable amid tensions

The president's explicit statement rejecting speculation about Powell's removal has helped clarify the immediate future of Fed leadership. Trump's response - "The press runs away with things" - suggested that media coverage had exaggerated the likelihood of significant changes at the central bank.

Despite his criticisms, Trump's decision to maintain Powell's position indicates a more nuanced approach to Federal Reserve relations than initially perceived. This development suggests that while policy disagreements persist, institutional stability remains a priority.

The ongoing dialogue between the White House and the Federal Reserve continues to shape market expectations and economic policy discussions. These interactions will likely influence future monetary policy decisions and economic outcomes.

What lies ahead for monetary policy

President Donald Trump's clear statement about Jerome Powell's position at the Federal Reserve has resolved immediate questions about central bank leadership. The president's Tuesday Oval Office comments definitively ruled out any plans to remove Powell, despite persistent disagreements over monetary policy direction and timing of interest rate adjustments. The tension between Trump's push for immediate rate cuts and Powell's more cautious approach remains a central feature of U.S. monetary policy discussions. This dynamic is likely to continue influencing economic policy debates, particularly as the Federal Reserve navigates concerns about inflation, economic growth, and the impact of tariff policies.

A second Signal chat scandal has engulfed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, casting shadows over his role in the Pentagon's highest office amid growing concerns about information security.

According to the Daily Mail, Hegseth shared sensitive military details about strikes in Yemen through a private Signal chat group that included his wife, brother, and personal lawyer, even as he maintains President Donald Trump's support.

The defense secretary faces mounting pressure after revelations that he created a 13-person chat group called "Defense Team Huddle" where he shared flight schedules for F/A-18 Hornets targeting Houthis in Yemen. This disclosure follows a previous Signal scandal involving National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, who had included an editor from The Atlantic in a separate chat.

Pentagon leadership faces internal turmoil

Former Pentagon spokesman John Ullyot's resignation has added fuel to the controversy. In a scathing Politico op-ed, he described the Defense Department as being in "total chaos" and a "full-blown meltdown." The situation has triggered an internal investigation, resulting in three senior staffers being placed on administrative leave.

President Trump has publicly defended Hegseth, dismissing the controversy as "fake news" and attributing it to disgruntled employees. Speaking at the White House Easter Egg Roll, Trump praised Hegseth's performance, suggesting the secretary was targeted for attempting to remove problematic staff members.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reinforced the administration's position, stating Trump's continued confidence in the defense secretary. However, the investigation's scope has expanded to include various sensitive matters, from Panama Canal operational plans to potential meetings with Elon Musk regarding China war strategies.

Signal chat group raises security concerns

Jennifer Hegseth, the defense secretary's wife and former Fox News producer, was among the chat participants despite lacking Defense Department credentials. His brother Phil, while employed as a Department of Homeland Security liaison, and attorney Tim Parlatore's security clearance levels remain unclear.

The chief of staff who initiated the leak investigation, Joe Kasper, has since transferred to another position within the agency. The probe encompasses multiple security breaches, including unauthorized disclosures about Ukraine intelligence operations and Red Sea deployments.

Former Pentagon spokesman John Ullyot expressed his views:

I'm a longtime backer of the secretary and value his friendship. The dysfunction is now a major distraction for the president - who deserves better from his senior leadership. It's hard to see Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth remaining in his role for much longer.

Pentagon staffers respond to allegations

The three suspended senior staffers - Colin Carroll, Dan Caldwell, and Darin Selnick - have publicly defended their actions. They released a joint statement expressing disappointment in their treatment and highlighting their military service records.

The staffers claimed they remain uninformed about the specific nature of the investigation. Despite their suspension, they expressed continued support for the administration's mission to "make the Pentagon great again and achieve peace through strength."

Hegseth has attempted to discredit the media coverage, particularly targeting the New York Times. He specifically criticized the publication, connecting it to what he termed the "Russia hoax" and questioning the validity of their Pulitzer Prizes.

Where matters stand now

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's position remains precarious following revelations about sharing classified Yemen strike information through the Signal messaging app. The controversy has sparked a widespread Pentagon investigation, resulting in three senior staff suspensions and the departure of his chief of staff from the position. Despite facing intense scrutiny over security protocols and management practices, Hegseth maintains President Trump's public support. The investigation continues to examine multiple potential security breaches, while former Pentagon officials warn of widespread dysfunction within the department's leadership structure.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces renewed scrutiny over his alleged use of private messaging platforms to share sensitive military information.

According to Fox News, Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., expressed strong disapproval of reports claiming Hegseth shared details about Yemen military operations in a second Signal group chat that included his wife, brother, and personal lawyer.

The controversy stems from a New York Times report published Sunday, which alleged that Hegseth discussed information about March 15 strikes targeting the Houthis in Yemen. This revelation follows previous allegations about a separate Signal chat that reportedly included an editor from The Atlantic.

Republican lawmaker questions Defense Secretary's judgment

Bacon, who serves on the House Armed Services Committee and is a retired military officer, emphasized his concerns about Hegseth's experience since his nomination. While his office clarified that he would not advise President Trump on personnel decisions, Bacon maintained a firm stance against such behavior.

The Nebraska representative's comments reflect growing tension within Republican ranks regarding the Defense Secretary's communication practices. His statement suggesting he "wouldn't tolerate it" as commander in chief carries significant weight given his military background.

White House officials have mounted a vigorous defense of Hegseth, with spokesperson Anna Kelly dismissing the allegations as attempts by disgruntled former employees to undermine the president's agenda.

White House maintains strong support for Hegseth

President Trump rejected the reporting as "fake news" while praising Hegseth's leadership of the armed forces. The administration has consistently denied that any classified information was shared through the Signal messaging platform.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reinforced the president's position during a Fox News appearance on Monday. She emphasized the administration's unwavering support for the Defense Secretary.

Hegseth himself addressed the controversy during the White House Easter Egg roll, where he said: "This is why we're fighting the fake news media. This group right here is full of hoaxsters."

Security concerns spark broader discussion

The use of Signal, an encrypted messaging app with enhanced privacy features, has raised questions about the handling of sensitive military information. The platform's security measures ensure messages remain private to chat participants.

The administration maintains its position that no classified material was transmitted in either Signal chat. However, the controversy has prompted discussions about appropriate communication channels for high-ranking defense officials.

These developments come amid increasing scrutiny of information security practices within the Defense Department. The situation highlights the delicate balance between personal communication and national security protocols.

Defense Secretary controversy unfolds amid political tensions

Pete Hegseth, Trump's Defense Secretary, faces mounting pressure over allegations of sharing sensitive Yemen military operation details in private Signal group chats. The controversy began with initial reports about a chat including an Atlantic editor and escalated with new claims about a second chat involving family members and his lawyer. As the White House and Trump administration maintain their support for Hegseth, Republican Representative Don Bacon's criticism highlights growing concerns about the Defense Secretary's communication practices and their potential implications for military operations security.

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