GOP Shake-Up: Congressman Don Bacon Becomes First Republican to Openly Call for Pete Hegseth’s Resignation
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In a bold and unexpected political move that’s sending shockwaves through conservative circles, Republican Congressman Don Bacon has officially become the first member of the GOP to publicly call for the resignation of Pete Hegseth.
Hegseth — a high-profile conservative commentator and Fox News personality often seen as a strong ally of Trump-era politics — has come under growing scrutiny in recent weeks over controversial remarks and behind-the-scenes influence within the Republican Party. But until now, no elected Republican had dared to speak out.
That changed today.
💥 “We Can’t Pretend This Is Okay Anymore,” Says Bacon
Speaking to reporters outside Capitol Hill, Bacon didn’t mince words.
“There comes a point where loyalty to the party must be outweighed by loyalty to the truth and to the American people,” he said. “Pete Hegseth’s behavior and rhetoric are not just reckless — they’re damaging to our credibility, our unity, and our future.”
While Bacon didn’t specify a single incident that prompted his call, sources close to the congressman say the tipping point came after Hegseth was accused of pressuring candidates behind the scenes and stoking internal division within the party.
⚠️ GOP Response: A Party Divided?
The reaction from within the Republican Party has been mixed.
Some hardliners have rushed to defend Hegseth, calling Bacon’s comments “disappointing” and “a betrayal of the conservative movement.” Others, however, say Bacon may be saying what many in the party have been thinking — but were too afraid to say out loud.
“Don Bacon just did something rare in today’s political climate,” tweeted one moderate GOP strategist. “He showed spine.”
Privately, a handful of Republican lawmakers have admitted that Hegseth’s influence — particularly among far-right voters — has been a growing concern, with one anonymous member calling it “a ticking time bomb.”
⏳ What Happens Next?
Whether Bacon’s public stand triggers a domino effect or fizzles out remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: cracks are forming in the Republican firewall that has long protected controversial media figures like Hegseth.
In the meantime, Hegseth has not yet issued a public response. His last post on X (formerly Twitter) simply reads:
“Truth will always rattle cowards.”
As the drama unfolds, all eyes are now on Capitol Hill — and on the next Republican who might decide to speak out.