According to The New York Times, the tests were conducted in August and involved both military and civilian personnel. Investigators appear particularly interested in leaks concerning the war in Iran and shortages of critical munitions.
Officials familiar with the investigation said the sweeping use of polygraphs was intended not only to find a suspected leaker but also to discourage anyone else from speaking to reporters.
Hegseth's boss, Donald Trump, flew into a rage last week, calling the press "treasonous SCUM" for reporting a munitions shortage.
The scope of the investigation is highly unusual. More than 1,500 people work on the Joint Staff, and retired Rear Adm. Donald J. Guter, a former Navy judge advocate General, told the Times that he had never seen polygraph testing conducted so broadly or at such a senior level.
Hegseth announced in July that the Defense Department and Justice Department would work together on a joint investigation into leaks. The Pentagon has declined to discuss the probe's details, saying only that it takes the disclosure of classified national-security information extremely seriously.
The aggressive leak investigation comes as Hegseth, a former Fox News personality, encounters growing criticism over his leadership of the Pentagon and his handling of the war in Iran. He has not held a press briefing on the war since May and has been accused of restricting information available to both journalists and the public, according to The Daily Beast. His term has also generated friction with senior military leaders, including by preventing promotions for at least 80 generals.
Even some Republicans are now openly questioning Hegseth's leadership. North Carolina GOP Sen. Thom Tillis, who is not seeking reelection, sharply criticized him following the abrupt resignation of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, reportedly over disagreements with Hegseth. Tillis called Hegseth's management of the military the most inept he had ever witnessed and urged Trump to fire him.
And then there was the General who was fired over an investigation into Kid Rock's military flyby stunt at his home. The incidents of Hegseth's unprofessionalism would take volumes to list. But, hey, at least he can do push-ups, right? Priorities!
Trump, however, continues to stand behind his defense secretary, insisting that Hegseth is doing a "fantastic" job.
