According to reports, Pentagon staff have been surprised to see Rauchet quietly attending briefings and sitting at the back during meetings. The Guardian noted she joined Hegseth at the 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner and has appeared more often as he has become more isolated.
Hegseth, 45, has presided over high-profile departures, including Navy leader John Phelan, Chief Army Chaplain Gen. William Green Jr., and Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George. Reports say George asked to discuss blocked promotions allegedly affecting many women and Black officers, but Hegseth declined the meeting. Lawmakers and aides have criticized his performance and behavior in classified briefings.