The Senate moved forward with the nomination of Pete Hegseth as President Donald Trump's defense secretary in a largely party-line vote. The vote, 51-49, saw two Republicans, Sen. Lisa Murkowski and Sen. Susan Collins, breaking ranks with their party. Hegseth, a former combat veteran and Fox News host, faced allegations of excessive drinking and aggressive behavior towards women, which he denied.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer raised concerns about Hegseth's qualifications to lead the U.S. military, questioning if he was the best candidate for the role. Both Murkowski and Collins expressed reservations about Hegseth's past statements on women serving in combat roles.
Despite the controversy surrounding Hegseth, most Republicans signaled their support for his confirmation. The Senate Armed Services Committee chairman dismissed the claims against Hegseth as inaccurate, emphasizing his readiness for the position.
Hegseth's nomination has been met with swirling allegations, including claims of sexual assault and heavy drinking. He has denied these allegations, with a recent report revealing a settlement with a woman who accused him of sexual assault in 2017.
While some senators have expressed doubts about Hegseth's experience and behavior, others, like Sen. Joni Ernst, a combat veteran and sexual assault survivor, have indicated their support for his nomination.
If confirmed, Hegseth has pledged not to drink on the job and to bring a 'warrior culture' to the Pentagon. The final confirmation vote is expected to take place soon, with Vice President JD Vance potentially called in to break a tie vote.
As the Senate navigates the confirmation process for Trump's Cabinet picks, Hegseth's nomination serves as a test of the president's influence and the Senate's willingness to approve outsider candidates for key positions.
