Political strategist Steve Schmidt on Saturday published an article called Questions for the generals, in which he argues that Hegseth is setting the stage for a potential "coup." He added, "Can you imagine the disdain that senior professional soldiers feel for a man accused of rape, who entered into a confidential settlement agreement with his alleged victim?" Schmidt continued: "Can you imagine the embarrassment for someone who is festooned with Christian nationalist tattoos, who has desecrated the Armed Forces with this insanity?" "The generals know that they are led by liars and fools," the analyst wrote Saturday. "The generals know that war is coming, despite Donald promising peace."