Pete Hegseth faced sharp scrutiny from Senate Democrats on Tuesday as President-elect Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense defended his qualifications, character, and controversial past during a contentious confirmation hearing. Despite fierce opposition, Hegseth emerged relatively unscathed, buoyed by strong support from Republican senators.
The former Fox News host and Army National Guard veteran projected himself as a reformer determined to bolster military readiness while dismissing allegations of misconduct and mismanagement as politically motivated attacks.
“This was a tour de force, a takedown, a triumph,” declared Senate Armed Services Chair Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) following the hearing. “I don’t think it could have gone any better.”
A Divisive Nominee
Democrats painted Hegseth as unfit to lead the Department of Defense and its 3 million personnel, citing allegations of sexual misconduct, excessive workplace drinking, financial mismanagement, and controversial statements about women in combat roles.
Ranking committee member Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) criticized Hegseth's experience and temperament:
“The role of Secretary of Defense demands unparalleled experience, wisdom, and character. I do not believe you are qualified to meet these overwhelming demands,” Reed said.
Hegseth rejected accusations about a 2017 sexual assault allegation, stating he was “completely cleared” and asserting the matter was resolved privately in 2020. He also dismissed reports of excessive drinking as “anonymous smears” but committed to abstaining from alcohol on the job if confirmed.
Tough Questions from Democrats
Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) pressed Hegseth about allegations of financial mismanagement at veterans organizations he once led.
“You talk about raising standards for troops, but lower them for the Secretary of Defense,” said Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.).
Hegseth acknowledged past marital infidelities when questioned by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), stating, “I’m not a perfect person.”
Democratic concerns extended to Hegseth’s previous comments opposing women in combat roles, highlighted by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) as “disrespectful.” Though Hegseth claimed he supported maintaining high standards without gender-based restrictions, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) accused him of reversing his stance solely to secure the nomination.
Republican Defense
GOP lawmakers rallied to Hegseth’s defense, casting Democratic criticisms as politically motivated.
“It seems to me you’ve supervised more people than the average U.S. senator,” Wicker said, praising Hegseth’s leadership experience.
Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) lauded Hegseth’s knowledge of military hardware, framing him as a nominee who understands battlefield realities. Meanwhile, Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) accused Democrats of hypocrisy regarding allegations of misconduct.
On Track for Confirmation
Despite the grilling, Hegseth appears poised for confirmation, with few signs of wavering Republican support.
Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a military veteran and sexual assault survivor, voiced initial reservations but later secured a commitment from Hegseth to prioritize sexual assault prevention.
“You’ve conducted yourself very well today,” said Sen. Jim Banks (R-Ind.), urging swift confirmation.
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