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Controversy Erupts Over Pentagon Makeup Studio Renovation

On Wednesday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced significant backlash from Democratic lawmakers regarding the reported creation of a makeup studio at the Pentagon, which has been described as a space for senior officials to prepare for televised appearances.

CBS News was the first to break the story, revealing that the renovation reportedly cost thousands of dollars. The outlet’s report drew wide attention and criticism on social media.

A Defense Department official stated in an email to The Hill that routine upgrades to the Pentagon Briefing Room are common during transitions in administration. “The Office of the Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs has recently upgraded an area informally termed the ‘Green Room,’ intended to provide senior leaders and VIPs a space to prepare for media engagements,” the official clarified.

According to the official, the enhancements primarily involved furniture modifications, including the addition of a director’s style chair, mirror, and makeup lighting. “All items were sourced from existing inventories,” the official emphasized, noting that the construction involved a countertop designed for practical use and a commitment to using less costly, readily available materials.

However, the admission did little to quell the criticism from various Democratic figures. Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) mocked Hegseth on social media, using a GIF from the film “Predator,” depicting Arnold Schwarzenegger with war paint. “Only makeup that our Sec Def should be putting on,” he quipped.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) joined the fray, poking fun at Hegseth by expressing that, based on sources, his preferred products were “concealer and coverup.”

Representative Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) added his voice to the ridicule by referencing a past incident in which sensitive military discussions were inadvertently shared with outside parties through a Signal group chat. His post on X included emojis, humorously juxtaposing lipstick with the incident.

In response, the Defense Department took to social media to challenge CBS’s characterization of the renovations, asserting that the alterations “didn’t cost thousands” and that all enhancements to the so-called GREEN ROOM came from pre-existing inventories rather than new expenditures.

Reports indicate that prior to the refurbishment, the room housed minimal furnishings: a table, chairs, a TV, and framed photographs of former Pentagon leaders. Changes included replacing some of this furniture and enhancing the lighting for makeup purposes.

Condemnation of Hegseth’s actions intensified, with Representative Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) declaring that the establishment of a makeup studio was inconsistent with the military ethos. “Hegseth was derelict in his duties by using his personal phone to disclose ongoing combat operations, and now he is squandering taxpayer money. How does a makeup studio at the Pentagon assist our troops? He needs to resign,” Lieu stated.

The Hill has reached out to the Defense Department for further comment on the matter.

Source
thehill.com