SHAKE-UP AT THE PENTAGON AMID SIGNAL CHAT CONTROVERSY AND RESIGNATIONS

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE

Article Published on: 25TH APR 2025 | www.demodemagazine.com

Amid growing turbulence in the Pentagon, Chief of Staff Joe Kasper is stepping down under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, a senior defense official confirmed Thursday. Kasper will continue serving President Trump as a Special Government Employee (SGE), focusing on special projects. His departure follows the recent dismissal of three senior officials—Darin Selnick, Dan Caldwell, and Colin Carroll—amid a leak investigation reportedly tied to disputes with Kasper.

The ousted advisors criticized their removal, accusing the Pentagon of launching "baseless attacks" on their reputations. Meanwhile, former Pentagon press secretary John Ullyot questioned Hegseth’s leadership and future in a sharply worded op-ed.

These developments unfold as Hegseth faces scrutiny over his reported use of the Signal app to discuss classified Yemen strike details—including an accidental message sent to a journalist. Despite the uproar, the White House has reaffirmed its support for Hegseth and denied speculation about his potential replacement.