A sharp confrontation unfolded Tuesday during Mike Waltz’s Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing as Democrats assailed him for his role in the “Signalgate” leak.
Senator Cory Booker criticized Waltz’s lack of apology and accountability, calling it “profound cowardice” and asserting that Waltz “failed to take some responsibility” for compromising national security. Booker added, “It compounds what I think is disqualifying about you for this position.”
Waltz’s controversy stems from accidentally including Atlantic editor Jeffrey Goldberg in a private Signal chat group with other senior Trump administration officials. The group discussed sensitive details about a U.S. airstrike on Houthi targets in Yemen before the operation was carried out. Waltz defended his actions, citing guidance from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency endorsing use of Signal, but acknowledged it was not approved for classified communications.
Senators Coons, Kaine, and Booker pressed Waltz on whether the chat contained classified content and what investigations followed. Waltz stated he believed no classified information was shared and confirmed that the White House initiated an inquiry, while the Pentagon’s investigation remains ongoing.
Beyond the controversy, Waltz reiterated his commitment to reshaping the United Nations by cutting waste and confronting pro-China and anti‑Israel bias. He emphasized Trump‑style reforms and alignment with U.S. interests, urging transparency in how UN funds are used.
Former Special Forces colonel and four‑time Bronze Star recipient Waltz affirmed his loyalty to President Trump in response to questions from Senator Rand Paul, acknowledging doubts raised about his ideological alignment within the Republican Party.
The outcome of this hearing will determine whether Waltz secures the Senate’s approval to become Ambassador to the United Nations. His confirmation hangs in the balance ahead of a vote expected before the UN General Assembly convenes on September 9.
