After leaks, Hegseth limits Pentagon staff's interaction with Congress

""The Department of War (DoW) relies on a collaborative and close partnership with Congress to achieve our legislative goals," Hegseth and Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg wrote. "Unauthorized engagements with Congress by DoW personnel acting in their official capacity, no matter how well-intentioned, may undermine Department-wide priorities critical to achieving our legislative objectives," they wrote. The Pentagon did not immediately respond to Axios' Monday afternoon request for comment."

"The office will also complete a comprehensive review of congressional interactions with DoD staff within 90 days, and submit a report identifying current issues and proposals to streamline interactions. Position descriptions and contact information for all personnel that directly or indirectly informs Congress is set to be sent to the office. The memo authorizes the office to take any additional steps necessary to review all congressional interactions, including establishing working groups, requesting materials or arranging meetings with military personnel."

The Pentagon ordered all staff to submit congressional correspondence to the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Legislative Affairs so responses can be coordinated. The office must complete a comprehensive review of congressional interactions within 90 days and produce a report identifying issues and proposals to streamline engagement. Personnel position descriptions and contact information for anyone who directly or indirectly informs Congress must be provided to the office. The office may establish working groups, request materials, or arrange meetings with military personnel. The directive excludes the Inspector General and aims to limit leaks after an official shared plans inadvertently.

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