US Senator Thom Tillis criticizes Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for avoiding press and lacking respect for Congress

On Sunday, Republican Senator Thom Tillis criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on CNN for avoiding serious press and showing disrespect to Congress. Hegseth is struggling to gain support for his $1.5 trillion Pentagon budget request, which includes $88 billion for the ongoing Iran war. Many GOP senators are unhappy with the war's progress, Hegseth's mass firings of military officers, and his lack of relationship-building. They worry the war hurts their election chances. Some suggest a budget reconciliation bill is needed to pass the funding. President Trump still supports Hegseth, but concerns remain about his leadership and ability to secure funds.