Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin has expressed optimism regarding the confirmation of Pete Hegseth as defense secretary, despite facing opposition from some GOP moderates. Hegseth successfully passed a procedural hurdle in the Senate on Thursday, paving the way for a final confirmation vote expected on Friday evening. However, Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski have publicly voiced their opposition to Hegseth's nomination, leaving little room for further defections within the GOP.
Senator Mullin remains steadfast in his belief that there are 50 solid votes in favor of Hegseth's confirmation, with an estimated total of 52 votes expected. He anticipates that all Democrats and the moderate Republicans from Alaska and Maine will vote against Hegseth's confirmation.
Mullin confidently stated in an interview that Hegseth will undoubtedly be confirmed, hinting that the swearing-in ceremony could potentially take place as early as Saturday. The Senate voted 51-49 to advance Hegseth's nomination on Thursday, triggering a period of up to 30 hours of debate before the final vote.
Hegseth's nomination has been met with intense scrutiny from Democrats, who have questioned his qualifications for the position and raised personal concerns about his alleged drinking habits and misconduct, which Hegseth vehemently denies. He has pledged to abstain from alcohol if confirmed.
Recent reports surfaced this week regarding allegations of alcohol abuse made by Hegseth's ex-sister-in-law, although she clarified that she had not witnessed any physical or sexual abuse by Hegseth against his ex-wife. Despite these allegations, Hegseth's ex-wife has denied any physical abuse.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Hegseth's nomination, labeling him as unqualified and urging Republicans to oppose his confirmation. Schumer emphasized the importance of appointing qualified individuals to key positions, especially within the Department of Defense.
Looking ahead, Senator Mullin predicted that once Hegseth is confirmed, Democrats may shift their focus to scrutinizing other nominees, such as Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence. He suggested that Democratic senators vying for attention and positioning themselves as champions of the party could be motivated by potential presidential ambitions.
Mullin highlighted the political dynamics at play, noting that opposition to Trump's nominees could serve as a platform for certain Democratic senators to bolster their profiles within the party. As the confirmation process unfolds, the political landscape continues to evolve, with implications for both the current administration and potential future contenders.
