Protesters INTERRUPT Hegseth Speech, Defense Chief SLAMS ‘Ingrates’ Amid National Guard Event |WATCH

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised the National Guard while responding to protesters gathered outside the event, calling the demonstrations "background noise." Hegseth said the protesters were "ingrates" who were "blinded by ideology" and unable to recognize the importance of law and order and common sense. His remarks have sparked fresh political debate over protests, public order, and the role of the National Guard amid growing tensions.