In a revelation that has raised eyebrows across Washington, a former senior Pentagon official has admitted to regularly sleeping in his military uniform as a political statement against liberal critics.
Pete Hegseth, who served as a senior official in the Pentagon during the Trump administration, made the startling confession during a television appearance that has since gone viral.
The Uniform Admission
During his interview, Hegseth declared with apparent pride: "I slept in my uniform for three years - boots, everything." When questioned about the practicality of such a habit, he clarified it was specifically his combat uniform rather than full battle gear.
The former official, now a Fox News contributor, explained his motivation stemmed from wanting to "own the libs" - a popular conservative phrase meaning to provoke or upset liberals.
Background and Reaction
Hegseth's military service includes time as an infantry officer in the Army National Guard, with deployments to Guantanamo Bay, Iraq, and Afghanistan. However, his recent comments have drawn criticism from military veterans and political commentators alike.
Many have questioned the authenticity of his claims, while others have expressed concern about the politicisation of military service. The admission comes amid ongoing debates about the relationship between the US military and political leadership.
Broader Implications
This incident highlights the continuing cultural and political divisions within American society, particularly regarding the symbolic use of military service in political discourse. The timing is notable as the country approaches another election cycle where national security and military values remain key talking points.
Neither the Pentagon nor representatives of the Trump administration have commented on Hegseth's claims, leaving many to wonder about the veracity of his unusual sleeping habits and their political significance.