U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth disembarks the USS Gridley as he attends exercises that are part of PANAMAX 2026, a multinational exercise focused on improving joint operational capabilities, enhancing regional security, and ensuring the protection and free flow of commerce through the Panama Canal, in Panama City, Panama, August 13, 2026. REUTERS/Aris Martinez
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's frantic appearance in front of reporters in Panama City on Thursday sparked drug accusations.
According to The Daily Beast, California's Democratic governor Gavin Newsom argued Hegseth may need drug testing or intervention after witnessing his behavior in Panama.
"He's delusional, manic, agitated. Has Pete Hegseth done a drug test lately? Why are the results not public?" Newsom's Press Office's X account posted.
In front of reporters, Hegseth spoke rapidly when defending the extended deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln near Iran, and claimed, "We make sure that every ship, every crew, every captain, has everything we can provide them at every single moment."
Pentagon insiders have previously raised concerns about Hegseth's "manic" behavior, according to The Daily Mail.
Hegseth, 46, has a documented history of substance abuse concerns, with his ex-wife telling the FBI he "drinks more often than he doesn't," and former Fox News colleagues reporting he reeked of alcohol before broadcasts.
He pledged abstinence ahead of his narrowly approved Senate confirmation.
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