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The Express Gazette
Saturday, October 31, 2026

Pentagon Officials Accused of Plotting to Oust Pete Hegseth

Disgruntled Pentagon employees allegedly compiled documents and held secret meetings to support efforts to remove Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

US Politics • an hour ago
Pentagon Officials Accused of Plotting to Oust Pete Hegseth

Sources claim that a clandestine operation is underway within the Pentagon, involving the collection of documents and covert meetings, with the alleged aim of aiding Democrats in their efforts to remove Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. This initiative is reportedly intended to gain momentum following the midterm elections.

Individuals involved in this alleged plot have reportedly secured evidence in various locations. Documents are said to be stored in a gun safe in Northern Virginia, a safe deposit box in Washington, D.C., and another undisclosed location on the West Coast. These materials are described as "receipts" that could be used to support the case against Hegseth.

Some of Hegseth's critics are reportedly anticipating a Democratic takeover of the House of Representatives, believing it could lead to impeachment proceedings. Others suggest that increased political pressure might compel President Trump to dismiss Hegseth.

Republican congressman Thomas Massie has previously advocated for Hegseth's impeachment and intends to re-examine this possibility after the midterms.

Hegseth has faced criticism for purportedly promoting a narrow form of Christian nationalism within the military and has been accused by some sources of running his department as a personal fiefdom. His wife, Jennifer, has reportedly been nicknamed "Yoko" for attending high-level meetings and sensitive communications despite holding no official Pentagon role.

Hegseth's critics are reportedly gathering emails, memos, and meeting notes, storing them in secure locations with the intention of providing this evidence to lawmakers. This effort is seen as a response to leadership changes and perceived uncertainties regarding the military's future direction.

Hegseth has already come under fire for allegedly trying to impose a narrow brand of Christian nationalism within the military

Sources previously told the Daily Mail that Hegseth, pictured on September 2, has been running his Department of War like a personal fiefdom

Hegseth visited troops in the Middle East in May. Sources suggest that frequent leadership changes have left troops uncertain about the military's future course.

Hegseth is seen visiting the troops in the Middle East in May. Inside sources tell the Daily Mail they believe repeated leadership shake-ups have left troops uncertain about the future direction of the military (Source: SecWar/X account)

Members of the military listen as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth gives a State of the Force address at Marine Corps Base Quantico in September


Sources