Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reacted on X, accusing Kelly of “blabbing” about a classified briefing and asking whether the senator violated his oath. Kelly fired back, noting much of the material had already been aired at a public hearing and posting video of their exchange.
The clash is part of a wider feud: Kelly joined last year’s viral video urging service members to refuse unlawful orders, prompting a DOJ inquiry and harsh criticism. Hegseth later tried to demote Kelly from a retired rank; a judge blocked that move as likely unlawful and Kelly sued. Hegseth has appealed, keeping tensions high.