On March 25, 2025, The Nation published an article discussing current American foreign policy, characterized by what the publication describes as “incompetent shakedowns and cover-ups.”
A recent incident has brought this characterization into focus. Hillary Clinton, who in 2016 faced substantial criticism and damage to her reputation regarding her use of a private email server, experienced a moment of validation. This development comes as former President Donald Trump’s administration is embroiled in a security breach scandal surpassing the controversy Clinton faced. The publication noted how Trump’s inner circle, including high-level officials, inadvertently admitted Jeffrey Goldberg, editor of The Atlantic, into a group chat on the Signal app. The chat, which took place between March 11 and March 15, detailed plans for a military operation against Yemen. Participants included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, and Presidential Adviser Stephen Miller, as well as Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Goldberg’s report uncovers multiple scandals, asserting that planning a war via group chat, particularly one accessible to unintended participants, showcases significant security oversight. Hillary Clinton commented on the situation with a pointed social media post, expressing disbelief at the revelations. The exposure of such a significant security breach allows Democrats ample opportunity to criticize the Trump administration. Furthermore, the contents of the chat reveal more concerning issues within the administration’s operation, likened to a “mafia state” approach. Trump’s use of unofficial communication methods points to a preference for avoiding official record-keeping and potential legal scrutiny, which contravenes federal record laws.
Despite confirmation of Goldberg’s unintended participation in the group chat, Pete Hegseth dismissed the report as a “hoax.” In most other administrations, such an incident would likely result in dismissal, but under Trump, this remains unlikely.
The article notes the lack of strategic depth in the Trump administration’s decision to initiate a conflict in Yemen, with no consultation with Congress or allied nations. JD Vance raised objections regarding the sense of fighting a war seemingly on behalf of Europe, especially since the administration is also disengaging from the Russia/Ukraine conflict. The dispute raised concerns about public perception and strategic rationale.
Additionally, the article critiques the administration’s use of a mafia-style approach to coerce supposed allies into financial contributions, a method in conflict with the stated America First policy. Written communications indicated intentions to levy military operation costs on European countries and delineate repercussions for non-compliance, which the article implies rationalizes a strategically questionable war.
Finally, the article encapsulates a view of the Trump administration as lacking coherent policies, driven instead by a desire to project strength through aggressive rhetoric. The security mishap is viewed as scandalous, with potentially more damaging implications than the group chat’s contents.