Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine has voiced her belief that President-elect Donald Trump's defense secretary nominee, Pete Hegseth, should undergo a comprehensive congressional vetting process, including an FBI background check, before confirmation.
Collins emphasized the importance of evaluating any allegations against Hegseth through an FBI background check, along with the completion of a standard background questionnaire and participation in a public hearing.
It has been noted that Trump's transition team is opting to bypass traditional FBI background checks for some of his Cabinet selections.
Hegseth has been meeting with GOP senators on Capitol Hill, while avoiding questions from the media regarding multiple misconduct allegations against him.
Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota acknowledged that the allegations against Hegseth are concerning but expressed his interest in meeting with Hegseth to understand who he is presently and his future intentions.
When asked about the evolving standards since the rejection of John Tower in 1989 due to similar allegations, Cramer suggested that societal tolerance for certain behaviors has shifted.
Cramer advocated for an FBI background check or a similar review process involving private entities, highlighting that committees possess investigative authorities to vet nominees.
Despite the allegations, Cramer indicated his inclination towards confirming Hegseth, stating that he is giving him the benefit of the doubt and is open to being convinced after spending time with him.
He emphasized that as long as the allegations remain unproven and in the past, he is willing to consider Hegseth's explanations.
