White House allies and officials are in turmoil over the handling of a leaked group chat involving plans for an attack on Houthi rebels in Yemen. The leak, initially reported by The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg, has sparked concerns and confusion within the administration.
Denial and Blame
President Donald Trump and his team have downplayed the gravity of the leaked conversation, dismissing it as non-sensitive information. Representative Don Bacon criticized the administration’s response, calling for transparency and accountability.
Blame Game
National security adviser Mike Waltz, who inadvertently added Goldberg to the chat, is facing backlash for his handling of the situation. White House staff and allies are frustrated with Waltz’s refusal to acknowledge his mistake and move forward.
Escalating Tensions
Waltz’s decision to involve Elon Musk in investigating the leak has raised further concerns about potential repercussions. Calls for Waltz’s resignation and a shift in communication strategy have intensified as the situation unfolds.
Messaging Missteps
The administration’s response, including labeling The Atlantic’s report as a ‘hoax’ and ‘false,’ has been criticized as counterproductive. Calls for accountability, transparency, and a unified front have been echoed by those close to the White House.
Path Forward
In light of the escalating scandal, allies and officials are urging a change in approach: own up to mistakes, remove Waltz from his position, and refocus on the administration’s agenda. The need for a cohesive and proactive response remains paramount.
