In an unexpected twist in the world of U.S. defense, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has found himself at the center of a media storm regarding alleged plans to install a makeup studio in the Pentagon. Reports surfaced this week suggesting that Hegseth requested modifications to a green room within the Pentagon, transforming it into a glam room complete with lighting, mirrors, and even a director's chair for high-ranking officials preparing for on-camera appearances.
On April 23, 2025, CBS News reported that sources familiar with the upgrades indicated Hegseth had approved the decor changes, which were meant to optimize the space for grooming before public engagements. However, the Defense Secretary quickly took to social media to refute these claims, labeling them as "totally fake" and asserting that there were no actual orders for such modifications.
"1) Totally fake story," Hegseth tweeted. "No 'orders' and no 'makeup'—but whatever." His comments drew attention not only for their content but for the tone, which some interpreted as dismissive of the serious implications of his role as a government official.
Hegseth, who until recently co-anchored Fox and Friends Weekend, has been under scrutiny for his perceived focus on appearances rather than substantive governance. Critics have pointed out that his background in television may have influenced his approach to his current position, raising questions about the appropriateness of such a glam room in a military setting.
A Defense Department official later clarified that while initial quotes for the green room's renovation were estimated between $10,000 and $15,000, the final cost ended up being much lower—described as "marginal" at a few hundred dollars. The official noted that the upgrades included a wooden countertop, lighting, and mirrors sourced from existing inventories, emphasizing a cost-effective approach to the modifications.
Despite this clarification, the incident has sparked broader discussions about the culture within the Pentagon and the influence of media personalities in high-ranking government positions. The rapid response from the Department of Defense, which included a social media post stating that the CBS story was "TRASH!", further highlighted the contentious atmosphere surrounding Hegseth's leadership.
In the midst of this controversy, Hegseth's personal life has also come under the microscope. His third wife, Jennifer Rauchet, a former Fox producer, has been mentioned in connection with his career, raising eyebrows about the blending of personal and professional relationships in the political sphere.
Meanwhile, the Pentagon's new glam room has drawn comparisons to other instances of high-profile officials prioritizing image over function. Kristi Noem, a prominent figure in the Trump administration, has previously been criticized for showing up to an ICE raid with her hair styled in barrel curls and wearing a $50,000 Rolex watch, which some saw as an inappropriate choice for the occasion.
As Hegseth continues to navigate the fallout from this incident, the support from his allies remains steadfast. Figures like Trump and other former Fox News colleagues have publicly backed him, emphasizing the importance of loyalty in the current political landscape. Hegseth's defenders argue that the scrutiny he faces is part of a larger trend of media bias against conservative figures.
In a related segment on April 24, 2025, Jimmy Kimmel weighed in on the situation, humorously suggesting that Americans wouldn't even recognize the former Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin, who was noted for his dedication to his duties rather than media appearances. Kimmel quipped, "You ever seen him before? No. You know why? He was inside the Pentagon doing his job—he was not on TV."
Jelly Roll, a singer who appeared on Kimmel's show the same night, also shared his story of a significant 200-pound weight loss, which provided a lighter counterpoint to the serious discussions surrounding Hegseth.
The juxtaposition of Hegseth's glam room plans with the realities of military service has left many questioning the priorities of those in power. As the Pentagon continues to grapple with its image and the responsibilities of its leaders, the incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between appearance and substance in government.
Ultimately, the ongoing narrative surrounding Pete Hegseth reflects broader societal themes, including the role of media in politics, the expectations placed on public officials, and the ever-present scrutiny of personal choices in the face of public service. As the story develops, it remains to be seen how this will impact Hegseth's career and the perception of the Pentagon as an institution.
