The Briefing with Jen Psaki Hegseth's problems snowball despite domesticated Pentagon press corps
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Dec 4, 2025 John Finer, former Deputy National Security Advisor and co-host of The Long Game podcast, shares insights on the complex interplay between civil-military relations and legality surrounding military strikes. He discusses the implications of Secretary Pete Hegseth's controversial past statements and the emerging media landscape that has affected Pentagon transparency. Finer highlights the tensions in operational norms and the grave national security implications posed by using insecure communication platforms like Signal.
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Admiral Pushed Out After Legal Concerns
- The Wall Street Journal reports Hegseth pressured Admiral Alvin Holsey to step down amid legal concerns about strikes.
- That suggests civil-military friction over legality and command responsibility.
Irony In Orders And Accountability
- Irony: Hegseth criticized Democrats for urging troops to refuse unlawful orders while he faces scrutiny for ordering potentially unlawful strikes.
- A 2016 video shows Hegseth himself saying troops must refuse illegal orders and there should be consequences for war crimes.
Experts Warn Of Civil-Military Fallout
- Jake Sullivan and John Finer stress the strikes reflect both potential lawlessness and damaging civil-military relations.
- They warn lasting tensions could harm military effectiveness and congressional confidence.