Pentagon Staffers Nickname Defense Secretary Hegseth's Wife "Yoko Ono"

Pentagon staffers have given Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's wife, Jennifer Hegseth, the unflattering nickname "Yoko Ono." Jennifer Hegseth, who previously worked as her husband's producer at Fox News, is seen by some as a close adviser, managing his activities and public image.

Sources told The Daily Mail she is like his parole officer and PR agent all at once. A Pentagon spokesperson described her as a vital asset and a true force multiplier for their mission, stating the Department of War plans deeper involvement. Jennifer Hegseth, 49, is reportedly her husband's most influential adviser, attending high-level meetings, interviewing prospective staffers, and preparing him for appearances.

She supported his combative posture toward the press, working to keep reporters out of the Pentagon. She also attended a sensitive meeting with British defense officials last year, making them uneasy. Jennifer Hegseth chairs the Military Spouse Commission, established by a President Donald Trump executive order last month. Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) renewed his call for President Trump to fire Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, stating, "He needs to go."

Tillis supports an impeachment resolution against Hegseth. This follows Army Secretary Dan Driscoll's resignation on August 31, 2026, reportedly due to frustration with Hegseth. Driscoll's departure leaves the Army without a Senate-confirmed civilian leader six months into the Iran war. Since January 2025, Hegseth has fired or blocked over 80 admirals and generals, often citing woke diversity efforts. More than half of removed officers are women or Black.