The polygraphs have made a comeback at the Pentagon following concerns within the Trump administration regarding leaks of classified information to the media. The New York Times reported that approximately 50 personnel from the Joint Staff were questioned about disclosing classified information to journalists. This “major leak hunt” involved widespread polygraph tests in August, with the possibility of more tests to come.
The Joint Staff, which oversees operations and policy coordination with combatant commanders globally, employs between 1,500 and 2,000 officers and officials. Additionally, officials under US Central Command (CENTCOM) were also subjected to polygraph tests earlier in the summer.
Reports have surfaced indicating the depletion of US munitions stocks, including long-range Tomahawk missiles, Patriot missiles, and THAAD interceptors during the Iran conflict. Although no one reportedly failed the polygraph tests, the extensive testing has been described as “extraordinary” and has raised concerns about loyalty and dissent within the Defense Department.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has tightened his inner circle of trust, and the Department of War has emphasized the seriousness of leaks of classified national security information. This recent wave of polygraph tests is not the first under the Trump administration, as efforts to combat leaks have been ongoing, including the signing of numerous NDAs.
While leak investigations are not unusual in government, President Trump’s administration appears particularly focused on preventing unauthorized disclosures ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. The use of polygraphs and other measures reflects a broader initiative to address leaks and maintain security within the Defense Department.