Story perspectives

72% of GOP Aides Blame Hegseth for Trump’s Foreign Policy

3/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

A Punchbowl News poll shows 72% of Republican congressional aides view Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as harming President Donald Trump's foreign policy goals.
Only 9% credit him for helping Trump's agenda, signaling a polarized assessment.
Hegseth's tenure includes a significant security breach and scrutiny over Caribbean missile strikes.
The White House says Hegseth is performing well and remains supported by President Trump amid Iran operations.

History

Historical Context

President Donald Trump appointed Jim Mattis as Secretary of Defense in 2017, marking a significant shift in U.S. military leadership. During his tenure, Mattis faced criticism over Trump's foreign policy, with 60% of military officials expressing concerns. His resignation in December 2018, following Trump's abrupt decision to withdraw troops from Syria, highlighted ongoing divisions within the Republican Party regarding military strategy and international relations.

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Story summary

A Punchbowl News poll shows 72% of Republican congressional aides view Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as harming President Donald Trump's foreign policy goals.
Only 9% credit him for helping Trump's agenda, signaling a polarized assessment.
Hegseth's tenure includes a significant security breach and scrutiny over Caribbean missile strikes.
The White House says Hegseth is performing well and remains supported by President Trump amid Iran operations.

1 / 2