Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized the media and “disgruntled former employees” on Monday as coverage intensified around the ongoing Signal controversy.

Speaking to reporters during the White House Easter Egg Roll, Hegseth dismissed reports suggesting a second Signal chat in which he allegedly shared intelligence related to strikes in Yemen. He insisted there was full alignment between him and President Donald Trump.

He also pushed back on recent reporting, accusing anonymous sources of fueling misleading stories. According to Hegseth, recently fired staff members are now spreading false claims through the media in an attempt to damage reputations.

Hegseth said he had spoken with Trump and confirmed they remain united. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also rejected reports that Trump was considering replacing him, calling them inaccurate.

The controversy stems from earlier reports about Signal group chats involving U.S. officials and sensitive military discussions, which raised concerns about information security. Despite criticism from some lawmakers, Trump has publicly supported Hegseth, saying he is doing a strong job and denying any wrongdoing related to classified information.