Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s recent decision to convert a green room near the Pentagon’s press briefing area into a makeshift makeup studio has stirred debate in Washington. The upgrade, involving a large mirror with makeup lighting and a director’s chair, reportedly cost a few thousand dollars—an expense raising eyebrows as the administration calls for budget tightening across departments.
Though the original plan was estimated at over $40,000, it was scaled back significantly, using items from existing inventories and in-house labor. According to the Pentagon, the revamped space is now a shared prep room for senior officials and VIPs ahead of press briefings.
Despite the backlash, Hegseth denied the claims on social media, calling it a “totally fake story.” However, insiders told CBS News the idea stemmed from Tami Radabaugh, a former Fox News and CBS News producer now working with Hegseth. His wife, Jennifer Hegseth—also a former Fox producer—along with Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell, reportedly supported the makeover.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host, has been using the room for his television appearances rather than for press briefings. One such appearance included his defense of a controversial Signal chat in which he allegedly shared sensitive military strike details with family members.
As the Pentagon’s inspector general investigates Hegseth’s conduct, critics question the optics of spending on personal comforts while pressing for military efficiency. Supporters, however, downplay the issue, pointing to minimal cost and practical utility.