Pete Hegseth faced tough questions but received support from Senate Republicans during his confirmation hearing for Secretary of Defense.
Washington: So, Pete Hegseth had his confirmation hearing, and it was quite the show. Senate Republicans were pretty friendly, backing him up as he aims for the Secretary of Defense spot under Trump.
Now, Hegseth walked in with some serious baggage. There were allegations about drinking and even sexual assault, which he denied. Plus, he had some past comments about women in combat that he’s since changed his tune on.
After over four hours of questioning, the Republicans felt good about him. They control enough votes to get him confirmed, needing just 50 to seal the deal.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Hegseth did a great job and made a solid case for why he should lead the Pentagon. Sounds like they’re ready to move quickly on this.
One key player was Joni Ernst, a Republican senator and combat vet. She’s been seen as crucial for Hegseth’s chances. Surprisingly, she didn’t push him too hard during the hearing, even though she had concerns before.
Ernst asked him about women in combat roles, and he agreed they should have the opportunity. She also got him to promise a senior official for sexual assault prevention, which he had already committed to.
Then there was Tim Kaine, a Democrat, who really went after Hegseth on his character. He brought up Hegseth’s past infidelities and questioned how he could be trusted. Hegseth downplayed a settlement related to a sexual assault claim, calling it a “nuisance lawsuit.”
Republicans quickly jumped to Hegseth’s defense. They pointed out that everyone makes mistakes and questioned why past senators weren’t held to the same standards.
Throughout the hearing, Hegseth praised Trump and criticized Biden, echoing the MAGA rhetoric. He claimed he was a victim of a smear campaign, just like Trump.
Democrats pressed him on his past comments about women in combat, with some senators saying his views were outdated and disrespectful. Hegseth tried to soften his stance, saying he had seen standards lowered in the military.
Senator Tammy Duckworth, a combat veteran herself, challenged him directly, saying he hadn’t earned the right to be Secretary of Defense. It was a heated moment, showing just how contentious this nomination could be.
