RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia Democrats are outraged after The Atlantic released new messages showing Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth texted detailed information in a Signal group chat, including when war planes would launch and “WHEN THE FIRST BOMS WILL DEFINITELY DROP,” hours ahead of pla nned U.S. strikes against a terrorist group in Yemen.  “If the level of this information had gotten out and it hadn’t been a responsible journalist, but it was somebody who could have turned this over to Iran or the Houthis, Americans could have died,” said Virginia Senator Mark Warner (D-Virginia).  Warner saying discussing sensitive attack plans in such a careless manner could have killed American service members.  “The Houthis could have moved their defensive tools, and they could have taken down an American plane,” said Warner.  Warner added that Hegseth and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz should resign.  “These jobs are serious jobs that require serious people,” said Warner.  Republican members of Congress sent 8News the following statement when asked about The Atlantic’s new reporting.   “This was a serious mistake. It goes without saying that sensitive national security information should only be shared over secure channels with individuals who hold security clearances. I trust the Administration will take steps to prevent this from happening again. Our new leadership is doing what the Biden Administration couldn’t – sending a strong message in Yemen that attacks on the U.S. and our allies will not be tolerated,” said Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02).  “I am relieved that the Houthi strikes were successful and effective. It is paramount that government officials follow the existing strict protocols for transmitting classified information in order to protect the men and women who serve our country. While we are still learning details about this incident, I’m glad that those responsible owned up to what happened. Our national security leaders will adjust and ensure a mistake of this magnitude never happens again,” said Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01).  ...read more read less