On Friday, President-elect Donald Trump publicly backed Pete Hegseth, his nominee for Secretary of Defence, despite doubts about his confirmation in the Senate due to allegations of excessive drinking, sexual assault, and controversial views on women in combat.
Hegseth, a former Fox News personality, Army National Guard major, and combat veteran, spent the week lobbying on Capitol Hill to save his nomination. Trump expressed his support on social media, stating, “Pete Hegseth is doing very well. He will be a fantastic, high-energy, Secretary of Defence. Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!”
The debate surrounding Hegseth’s nomination has evolved beyond just a leadership discussion for the Pentagon, touching on broader issues like the desire for a more traditional military and the opposition to “woke-ism.” Trump’s allies, including the Heritage Foundation, have rallied to Hegseth’s side, pledging $1 million to support his nomination.
“We’re not abandoning this nomination,” said Vice President-elect JD Vance during a trip to North Carolina. This fight has become a key test of Trump’s influence and the commitment of Republican senators, many of whom have reservations about some of his nominees. Some of Trump’s earlier picks, including Rep. Matt Gaetz and Florida Sheriff Chad Chronister, faced backlash and stepped down from their roles.
Hegseth has denied the sexual assault allegations and promised to refrain from drinking while in office. However, his controversial stance on women in combat, stating that they should not serve in combat roles, has intensified scrutiny. Trump and his team have been impressed by Hegseth’s determination, viewing it as one of the reasons he was chosen.
Still, Trump’s team has considered other options in case Hegseth’s nomination fails, with figures like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis being discussed. Despite Hegseth’s efforts to address concerns, his confirmation remains uncertain, especially after reports surfaced that he received a settlement following a sexual assault accusation, which he denies.
