The Warning with Steve Schmidt Steve Schmidt: Trump's Bad Judgement Will Cost Lives
Mar 5, 2026
A blistering takedown of inflammatory public rhetoric and its real-world consequences. Sharp critique of boastful war talk and calls for unchecked military escalation. Worries about allies, lack of planning, and the risk of widening sectarian conflict. A warning about reckless behavior that could endanger troops and civilians.
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Reported Drunken Outburst Illustrates Longstanding Hostility
- Schmidt recounts a reported incident where Pete Hegseth shouted "kill all the Muslims" while drunk on a hotel table.
- He uses that episode to illustrate Hegseth's longstanding hostility and moral unfitness for power.
Pete Hegseth's Character Poses National Risk
- Steve Schmidt argues Pete Hegseth displays dangerous indifference and incompetence in military leadership.
- Schmidt cites past behavior and calls him "a blusterer, a liar, a bootlicker, and an ass kisser" to show character risk for national security.
War Rhetoric as Grotesque Performance
- Schmidt analyzes Hegseth's hyperbolic war rhetoric claiming Iran's leadership and military are decimated.
- He highlights the grotesque performative tone, including the claim "we sunk their prize ship, the Soleimani."