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Republicans Question Hegseth’s Leadership After Army, Navy Firings

4/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senate Republicans cite the ouster of Army Chief of Staff Randy George and the firing of Navy Secretary John Phelan to doubt Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s leadership.
Senators say Hegseth’s limited experience and style raise doubts about his ability to run the Defense Department.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said Hegseth will not comment on officer departures and will testify before House and Senate Armed Services Committees this week, facing questioning.

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Story summary

Senate Republicans cite the ouster of Army Chief of Staff Randy George and the firing of Navy Secretary John Phelan to doubt Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s leadership.
Senators say Hegseth’s limited experience and style raise doubts about his ability to run the Defense Department.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said Hegseth will not comment on officer departures and will testify before House and Senate Armed Services Committees this week, facing questioning.