Pentagon chief Hegseth performs pushups after misstating facts to sailors

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth addressed a group of sailors on Tuesday, admitting to inaccuracies in his remarks by performing two pushups in what he framed as a penalty for the mistakes. The gesture came after Hegseth misstated several facts during his address to the naval audience.

Hegseth, who was appointed Pentagon chief in recent months, has faced heightened public attention regarding his statements and background. The incident at the naval facility underscored ongoing scrutiny of his remarks and their accuracy.

During the same address, Hegseth also performed an impression of President Donald Trump, according to witnesses present. The dual moments—the pushup forfeit and the impression—illustrated the defense secretary's informal approach to engaging with military personnel.

The Pentagon did not immediately issue an official statement regarding the specific factual errors or the nature of Hegseth's remarks to the sailors. Military officials have previously emphasized the importance of accurate information in all communications with service members.