Congress scrutinizes military communication protocols with Secretary Hegseth over chat security

The U.S. House Committee on Financial Services convened on May 7, 2025, to hear the Annual Testimony of the Secretary of the Treasury. The meeting focused on various pressing issues, including national security protocols and the handling of sensitive information.

The session began with the committee's ranking member, Representative Lynch from Massachusetts, addressing the Secretary. He raised concerns regarding a recent incident involving the Secretary and other senior officials who allegedly used a non-secure messaging app to discuss imminent military operations in Yemen. Lynch emphasized the gravity of sharing classified information through unsecured channels, highlighting the risks posed to U.S. military personnel.

Lynch questioned the Secretary about his awareness of proper protocols for discussing sensitive military plans. The Secretary confirmed that he had been briefed by his general counsel and stated that he had not personally discussed military intelligence on insecure lines. However, Lynch pressed further, pointing out that the Secretary was part of the group chat where sensitive details were shared, raising concerns about the implications of such actions.

The discussion underscored the importance of adhering to security protocols, especially when it comes to national defense. Lynch expressed the need for reassurances that such lapses would not occur in the future, emphasizing the potential consequences for American service members.

As the meeting progressed, the Vice Chairman, Representative Loudermilk from Georgia, took the floor to continue the dialogue with the Secretary. The session highlighted the ongoing scrutiny of government officials' communication practices and the critical need for secure channels in discussions involving national security.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a platform for addressing significant concerns regarding the handling of sensitive information within the government, particularly in relation to military operations. The Secretary's responses and the committee's inquiries reflect a broader commitment to ensuring the safety and security of U.S. personnel in the field. Further discussions and follow-up actions are anticipated as the committee continues to evaluate these critical issues.