Hegseth doesn’t rule out polygraphs to stop Pentagon leaks: ‘Whatever tools we need’

Published October 5, 2025 1:02pm ET



War Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Pentagon is setting “clear rules” to crack down on leaks, saying it will be similar to press clearances for the White House.

Hegseth said Pentagon leaks are illegal and insisted the Pentagon is doing “everything we can” to minimize leaks. He also said it is “disgusting” when journalists solicit classified information they receive from the Pentagon, and this is why the department has a policy on what clearances journalists will have in the building.

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