The Senate is scheduled to vote around 9 p.m. ET tonight to confirm Pete Hegseth as President Donald Trump’s defense secretary, following a process marked by controversy over allegations of sexual assault, workplace drinking, and financial mismanagement by the nominee.
Republican lawmakers anticipate that Hegseth will be narrowly confirmed after breaking a Democratic-led filibuster with a 51-49 vote. The vote timing could potentially be moved up to earlier in the day if an agreement is reached between the two sides. Senate Majority Leader John Thune mentioned this morning that efforts are ongoing to secure an earlier timing.
For Hegseth's nomination to be rejected, a total of four Republicans would need to vote against him. Notably, moderate GOP Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski have already expressed opposition to Hegseth's confirmation. There is also uncertainty surrounding former GOP leader Mitch McConnell's vote. While McConnell voted in favor of breaking the filibuster to advance Hegseth, he has not publicly disclosed his stance on the final confirmation. President Trump has voiced concerns about McConnell's past voting patterns, adding to the uncertainty surrounding McConnell's final decision. It is common for members of the majority party to align with their party on procedural votes, even if they ultimately oppose the nominee or legislation being considered.
Thune informed the White House ahead of Thursday's vote to break the filibuster that he anticipated the outcome. When asked about Trump's satisfaction with the Senate's pace in confirming his nominees, Thune stated that the administration is aware of the Senate's efforts to expedite the process.
