Congressman Salud Carbajal (D-CA) railed against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, calling him “an embarrassment to the United States” during a House Armed Services Committee hearing.
The moment was replayed on MSNBC. Anchor Ali Vitali noted the hearing was supposed to be about the budget, but “lawmakers are taking the opportunity to grill [Hegseth] on a range of other hot topics, including a dramatic exchange over the war in Ukraine.”
“Do you think the United States should continue supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia, a nation that is hostile towards the United States?” Carbajal asked.
“Well, as you know, sir,” Hegseth said in an effort to dodge the question, “President Trump is committed to peace –”
Carbajal cut Hegseth off, “I just want yes or no answers.”
Hegseth tried to talk over Carbajal, saying, “The United States has spent billions of dollars–”
But Carbajal continued, “Yes or no?”
Hegseth did not reply.
“Yes or no?” Carbajal said. “Just, yes or no. Can I get a yes or no out of you?”
Hegseth replied, “We continue to send—”
The California congressman interrupted again, “Come on! It’s that easy. Kindergartners can give me a yes or no."
“Yes. We support peace in Ukraine,” Hegseth replied.
“Come on. Is this really leadership?” Carbajal said before adding, “You're an embarrassment to the United States.”
Watch the full interaction here or below: