The troop deployment cost became a central issue Tuesday as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced intense questioning from Congress. Lawmakers demanded clear answers about sending troops to Los Angeles amid immigration protests.
Several members, including Democrats and Republicans, expressed frustration with the Trump administration’s budget transparency. “Your time as secretary has been marked by chaos,” Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut said directly.
The hearing quickly turned contentious. Committee members and Hegseth often talked over one another during fiery exchanges. They questioned the necessity and expense of deploying National Guard and Marine forces to LA.
After persistent probing, Hegseth deferred to acting comptroller Bryn Woollacott MacDonnell for the cost estimate. She confirmed the troop deployment cost at $134 million. This sum includes travel, lodging, and meals for the 700 Marines and over 4,100 National Guard troops involved.
Hegseth defended President Trump’s decision, stressing the need to protect federal agents. “We’re entering a new phase under President Trump, where the National Guard plays a vital role in homeland security,” he said.
This hearing marked Hegseth’s first chance to address Congress since his confirmation. He faces two more hearings this week. Members also complained about delays in receiving details of the administration’s proposed $1 trillion defense budget.
Concerns arose about additional spending projects, such as a $175 billion missile defense system dubbed the Golden Dome. Lawmakers promised rigorous review of such large proposals.
They also questioned funds allocated for security upgrades to a Qatari jet meant to serve as Air Force One. Furthermore, about $45 million was earmarked for a military parade celebrating the Army’s 250th birthday, coinciding with Trump’s own birthday.
Rep. Betty McCollum of Minnesota engaged in a tense exchange with Hegseth over the troop deployment cost. Though he dodged direct answers, MacDonnell provided the detailed figure later in the hearing.
The committee mostly focused on budget and spending issues, barely touching on other controversies surrounding Hegseth. They briefly mentioned his actions firing military leaders and ending diversity programs.
Notably, they did not discuss Hegseth’s use of the Signal app for military communications. Nor did they address his relatively low profile in major foreign policy matters involving Russia, Ukraine, or the Middle East.
Though Hegseth recently spoke at a security conference in Asia about China’s threats, his visit to NATO was brief. He even skipped a key meeting on Ukraine support with allies and partners.
As the troop deployment cost and broader budget issues dominate congressional scrutiny, Hegseth faces growing pressure to clarify his Pentagon priorities.
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