California Congressman Blasts Defense Secretary in Heated Hearing: 'I'm Not Wasting Any More Time!'
In a dramatic moment during a House Armed Services Committee hearing on June 12, 2025, California Congressman Salud Carbajal (D-CA) unleashed a sharp rebuke on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, accusing him of dodging critical questions. The exchange, which quickly went viral, highlighted a growing tension surrounding the Pentagon's policies and their impact on military families and veterans.
The hearing was focused on a range of pressing issues, including the rising cost of military equipment, the ongoing recruitment challenges, and the mental health crisis within the armed forces. Carbajal, known for his passionate advocacy for veterans, pressed Hegseth repeatedly on specific details regarding proposed budget cuts and their potential consequences for veterans' healthcare and support services.
Initially, Hegseth attempted to deflect Carbajal’s questions with broad statements and general policy pronouncements. However, Carbajal remained persistent, demanding concrete answers and challenging the Defense Secretary to address the concerns raised by military families in his district. The atmosphere in the hearing room grew increasingly tense as the exchange escalated.
The turning point came when Carbajal, visibly frustrated, declared, “You know what? I’m not gonna waste my time anymore.” He proceeded to outline a series of unanswered questions, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in government. His remarks were met with a mix of applause and gasps from those in attendance.
“Secretary Hegseth, the men and women who serve our country deserve better than to have their concerns brushed aside,” Carbajal stated. “They deserve straight answers and a commitment from their leaders to prioritize their well-being. We need to ensure that the policies coming out of the Pentagon are not just fiscally responsible, but also compassionate and responsive to the needs of those who put their lives on the line for our nation.”
The incident has sparked a wider debate about the level of scrutiny being applied to the Defense Department and the need for greater oversight of its operations. Many observers believe that Carbajal’s outburst, while forceful, was a necessary expression of frustration on behalf of the military community. Social media platforms buzzed with reactions, with many praising Carbajal’s willingness to challenge the status quo.
The full video of the hearing is available online, allowing viewers to assess the exchange for themselves. This incident underscores the vital role Congress plays in holding the executive branch accountable and ensuring that the interests of the American people are protected. The repercussions of this heated exchange are likely to be felt within the Pentagon and on Capitol Hill for weeks to come, as lawmakers grapple with the complex challenges facing the nation's military.
Carbajal’s office released a statement following the hearing, reiterating his commitment to advocating for veterans and holding the Defense Department accountable. The statement emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration to address the pressing issues facing the military community.
