Full Breakdown
Pentagon's $93 Billion Spending Spree Under Secretary Pete Hegseth
3/13/2026, 8:29:02 AM
Overview of Spending Practices
In September 2025, the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) under Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth engaged in a record-breaking spending spree, totaling approximately $93.4 billion. This expenditure was driven by the "use-it-or-lose-it" funding rule, compelling agencies to exhaust their budgets before the fiscal year ended on September 30. The DOD's spending included lavish purchases such as $6.9 million on lobster tails, $15.1 million on ribeye steaks, and significant amounts on luxury furniture and Apple products.
Breakdown of Expenditures
The analysis by the government watchdog Open the Books revealed that the DOD's spending in September was the highest recorded for that month since at least 2008. Notable expenditures included:
- Food Items: $6.9 million on lobster tails, $2 million on Alaskan king crab, and $15.1 million on ribeye steaks.
- Luxury Items: $98,329 for a Steinway & Sons grand piano for the Air Force chief of staff's residence, $124,000 on ice cream machines, and $139,224 on doughnuts.
- Furniture: Over $225 million was spent on furniture, including high-end chairs from Herman Miller costing nearly $1,900 each.
Context of Spending
Historically, September has seen a surge in DOD spending as officials rush to utilize remaining funds. This practice has been criticized for its potential wastefulness, especially in light of rising living costs for many Americans. Critics argue that such expenditures are inappropriate, particularly during a time when millions are losing access to essential benefits like SNAP.
Criticism and Opposition
The spending spree has drawn sharp criticism from various political figures. California Governor Gavin Newsom and Congressman Chuck Schumer labeled Hegseth's spending as excessive and wasteful, with Schumer calling him a "grifter." Representative Melanie Stansbury announced plans to investigate the spending, emphasizing the need for accountability in how taxpayer dollars are utilized.
John Hart, CEO of Open the Books, described the spending as "completely unacceptable," highlighting that taxpayers expect government funds to be allocated for essential services rather than luxury items. This sentiment was echoed by social media users who pointed out the stark contrast between government spending on lavish meals and the advice given to struggling Americans regarding affordable eating.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the backlash, Hegseth previously expressed a commitment to improving transparency in defense spending. He stated, "We need to know when we spend dollars, we need to know where they’re going," indicating an awareness of the need for reform in DOD spending practices.
What's Next
As the fallout from this spending spree continues, Congress is expected to hold hearings to examine the DOD's year-end spending habits and consider potential reforms to the "use-it-or-lose-it" funding rules. The implications of this spending are particularly significant as the U.S. military is engaged in an ongoing conflict with Iran, which has already incurred substantial costs.
Verbatim Quotes
- “HEGSETH BLOWING $93 BILLION OF TAXPAYER DOLLARS IN 1 MONTH !!” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
- “Hegseth spent $93 billion in one month – roughly the cost of extending the ACA tax credits for THREE YEARS.” — Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader
- “In addition to billions of taxpayer dollars being burned in this war in Iran, reports are showing that Sec.” — Melanie Stansbury, U.S. Representative
This unprecedented spending raises critical questions about fiscal responsibility and the prioritization of military expenditures in the context of domestic challenges.
