US War Sec. Converts Pentagon Room into Makeup Studio Amid Mounting Controversies

By Staff, Agencies

US War Secretary Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host now at the helm of the Pentagon, reportedly spent several thousand dollars to transform a room adjacent to the Pentagon press briefing area into a personal makeup studio for television appearances.

According to a CBS News report citing multiple sources, the renovation took place amid growing scrutiny over internal disarray at the Pentagon and Hegseth’s second operational security breach.

The modified space, previously a modest green room with basic furniture and a mirror, was upgraded with a large makeup mirror, lighting and a new chair, while the table was removed. A War Department spokesperson defended the renovation, stating that such upgrades are routine during changes in administration and claimed the new setup used items already available in Pentagon inventory.

The move comes at a time when the Trump administration has emphasized cost-cutting. Nevertheless, sources say the renovation was directed by Tami Radabaugh, a former Fox and CBS News producer now serving as deputy assistant to the secretary for strategic engagement. The makeover reportedly received approval from Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell and Hegseth’s wife, Jennifer Hegseth, who is also a former Fox News producer.

Despite avoiding press conferences, Hegseth has used the upgraded room for televised interviews, including one on Fox & Friends where he blamed ex-Pentagon staff and the media for exposing his latest security lapse.

In that incident, Hegseth sent sensitive military information to his wife, brother and lawyer through a Signal chat—raising serious concerns about his handling of operational intelligence. Although he denies leaking classified materials, it marked the second such episode this year following a related blunder by “National Security” Adviser Michael Waltz.

Hegseth, a combat veteran, faced a contentious confirmation process due to past allegations of sexual misconduct and financial impropriety, which he denied.

Since assuming office, he has prioritized military readiness and what he calls reviving the "warrior ethos," while critics say his actions reflect misplaced priorities and raise further questions about transparency and leadership within the Pentagon.

This latest report emerges as the Trump administration also faces pressure over its handling of the Ukraine war and ongoing unrest across US campuses due to "Israeli" aggression in Gaza.