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George Clooney speaks out after Pete Hegseth mocks Canadian cadets
Clooney said the post was body-shaming and urged more decency as he also warned that 2026 midterm elections could check Trump and Republicans.
Actor George Clooney condemned Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday at the Venice Film Festival for posting a photo that appeared to mock two members of the Vernon Cadets.
Earlier this week, Hegseth posted a photo of a cadet instructor and student with the caption "this is real," seemingly attempting to disparage the pair amid an ongoing trade feud between the United States and Canada.
Expressing deep concern about the secretary's behavior, Clooney asked, "What's wrong with you? Where's the sense of decency in all of this?" while criticizing cruelty as a trend in American political discourse.
Gen. Jennie Carignan, Canada's chief of defense staff, stated the affected Vernon Cadets members are receiving support from the Canadian Armed Forces, emphasizing their professional, competent personnel.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney urged the U.S. to "stop doing memes" and "throwing shade," stating trade negotiations can only advance when American officials shift focus to serious discussion.