Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is testifying before the House and Senate subcommittees on Tuesday to justify President Donald Trump's $1.5 trillion budget request for the U.S. military, a historic sum that lawmakers are scrutinizing amid ongoing conflicts and geopolitical tensions.
Key Details of the Hearing
The testimony, focused on the massive investment in the Defense Department, is expected to delve into the ongoing war with Iran, drawing down U.S. troops in Europe, and support for Ukraine. General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is joining Hegseth.
During opening remarks, Hegseth called the budget "historic" but contended it was "fiscally responsible." This comes a month after he gave a combative testimony, accusing lawmakers of being "the biggest adversary."
Congressional Reactions
Rep. Betty McCollum urged Hegseth not to "bring personalities" into the hearing. Later Tuesday, FBI Director Kash Patel is expected to testify on the administration's budget for law enforcement.
The Independent is providing live updates on this developing story.
