Retired Navy Admiral Elected to Congress Calls Hegseth 'Most Unqualified' Defense Secretary in US History

Retired Navy Admiral Nancy Lacore, elected to Congress last week, called Pete Hegseth the "most unqualified" defense secretary in U.S. history, citing damage to military readiness and potential impeachable offenses. Lacore, a Democrat who was ousted by Hegseth in August 2025, will represent South Carolina's 1st District in January. She told CBS News that Hegseth focused on the wrong priorities and that "plenty" of grounds for impeachment may exist. Hegseth and Pentagon officials have rejected the criticism, dismissing it as partisan attacks. Lacore's victory was part of Democratic gains, while other veterans, including Eileen Laubacher, also won or lead in races.