Donald Trump’s cabinet picks are beginning their nomination process this week, starting with Trump’s choice for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth. The Senate confirmation hearing for Pete Hegseth has adjourned. Hegseth was embraced by allies, incoming Trump officials, and family after the hearing ended. A new poll shows that about half of Americans view a lack of government experience negatively when it comes to advising on government policy.
Republican Sen. Eric Schmitt criticized 'race essentialism' in the military, calling for the removal of diversity and inclusion initiatives. Recruitment and retention of troops were key topics during Hegseth’s hearing, with concerns raised about veterans' benefits and diversity initiatives affecting enlistment.
Republican Sen. MarkWayne Mullin defended Hegseth against claims of lowering standards for the Secretary of Defense position, highlighting the civilian nature of the role. Some senators expressed reservations about Hegseth's qualifications, questioning his management experience and knowledge of geopolitics.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren drew laughter from the audience when she questioned Hegseth about serving in the defense industry post-service. Hegseth pledged to remove non-merit-based elements from the military and criticized efforts to combat extremism within the armed forces.
Sen. Dan Sullivan defended Hegseth against accusations of systemic racism and extremism in the military, calling such claims a smear. Hegseth faced questions about his tattoos, with Sen. Kevin Cramer focusing on their association with White Nationalist groups.
Sen. Joni Ernst engaged in a less combative exchange with Hegseth, focusing on the Department of Defense's financial audit. Democratic Sen. Mazie Hirono had a tense exchange with Hegseth over reports of drinking on the job and hypothetical scenarios involving following orders from the President.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal inquired into the tax returns of veterans support non-profits led by Hegseth, noting financial challenges during his tenure. Hegseth defended his actions, citing his pursuit of a degree from the Harvard Kennedy School during that time.
