Pentagon Secretary Excludes Democrats from Classified Defense Briefings

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has repeatedly barred Democratic senators from closed-door briefings on the upcoming defense budget, a move that Republican lawmakers say threatens the passage of President Donald Trump’s proposed $1.5 trillion military spending increase. The briefings, described by officials as “classified,” are essential because a significant portion of next year’s budget will still require Democratic votes, even if Republicans advance parts of the package through reconciliation.

The Guardian

The budget proposal, unveiled this year, represents the largest peacetime increase in U.S. defense spending. While the Republican-led administration hopes to push portions of the plan through party-line procedures, the Senate’s 50-50 split means bipartisan support remains crucial. Hegseth’s exclusion of Democrats follows remarks he made in April to the House Armed Services Committee, labeling congressional Democrats as a major obstacle to halting Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

The Guardian

Hegseth, in his April testimony, argued that Democratic opposition hampers efforts to stop Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

The Guardian

Republican senators have publicly challenged the exclusion policy. Senator Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) warned that Hegseth’s approach “undermines his own case” and prevents constructive debate. Senator Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota) emphasized the need to “bring up to speed” Democratic members, citing concerns that classified material could leak. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) called for a bipartisan format, noting that smaller groups may be practical but should not exclude the other party.

The Guardian

• “He calls himself the secretary of war, but ironically, he doesn’t want to go to war and win the argument with nearly half the members of the Senate,” — Thom Tillis, senator

The Guardian

• “The Department of War remains fully committed to working with Congress to ensure our warfighters have the resources necessary to execute their mission,” — Sean Parnell, the chief Pentagon spokesperson

The Guardian

• “Secretary Hegseth and senior department leadership regularly engage with lawmakers to discuss the defense budget, readiness, and national security priorities.” — Mike Rounds, a Republican senator of South Dakota

The Guardian

• “The Democrat members need to be brought up to speed,” — Mike Rounds, a Republican senator of South Dakota

The Guardian