President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense is set to face his first public questioning from U.S. senators on Jan. 14. The Senate Armed Services Committee is planning to hold Pete Hegseth’s hearing in mid-January. Hegseth, a former Fox News host and veteran, has been actively engaging with Senate offices to garner support from Republicans.
Some senators have raised concerns about Hegseth's suitability for the role due to allegations of excessive drinking and sexual misconduct. However, Hegseth has assured senators that he would abstain from drinking while serving as defense secretary and has refuted the reports of misconduct.
President-elect Trump has publicly endorsed Hegseth's nomination, emphasizing his belief in Hegseth's capabilities. Trump recently expressed his support on social media, declaring Hegseth as a 'WINNER' and asserting that nothing can diminish his qualifications.
In a show of camaraderie, Hegseth accompanied Trump to the Army-Navy football game over the weekend, further solidifying their relationship.
Following the swearing-in of the new Republican Senate on Jan. 3 and Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20, additional confirmation hearings are expected. Incoming Senate Majority Leader John Thune has expressed his intention to expedite the confirmation process for Trump's cabinet members once the new administration is in place.
