Hegseth also called "Our diversity is our strength" the "single dumbest phrase in military history," and intends to end the military's DEI programs.
Former president Jimmy Carter, a Navy veteran, passed away Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia.
Department leaders had warned of funding gaps of up to $18 billion but now believe those estimates were too high.
Department health officials have recorded about 67,000 new cases of COVID-19 among patients in 2024.
