The Senate is set to make a pivotal decision on Friday night regarding the confirmation of Pete Hegseth, President Donald Trump's controversial nominee for Secretary of Defense. Despite clearing a procedural hurdle on Thursday, Hegseth faces significant opposition stemming from concerns about his qualifications and allegations of personal misconduct.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army National Guard veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, has received strong backing from Republican leadership. Senate Majority Leader John Thune lauded Hegseth's credentials in a floor speech, saying, "A veteran of the Army National Guard who served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, Mr. Hegseth will bring a warrior's perspective to the role of defense secretary and will provide much-needed fresh air at the Pentagon."
However, the path to confirmation has been far from smooth. Hegseth's nomination has drawn scrutiny for his alleged history of sexual assault, excessive drinking, and financial mismanagement during his leadership of two nonprofit organizations. On Thursday, it was revealed that Hegseth paid $50,000 in 2017 to settle a sexual assault accusation. These allegations, alongside recordings where he expressed controversial views on democracy and feminism, have raised eyebrows among lawmakers.
Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Senator Susan Collins of Maine, both moderate Republicans, have publicly opposed Hegseth's nomination. "After thorough evaluation, I must conclude that I cannot in good conscience support his nomination for Secretary of Defense," Murkowski stated, while commending his service to the nation. Both senators voted against advancing the nomination on Thursday, joining a united Democratic opposition.
Hegseth can afford to lose only three Republican votes if Democrats remain unanimously opposed. In the event of a tie, Vice President JD Vance would cast the deciding vote. Speculation surrounds the position of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who advanced the nomination during the procedural vote but has yet to reveal his final stance.
President Trump has expressed frustration over the lack of unanimous Republican support. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Trump said, "I was very surprised that Collins and Murkowski would do that." He also hinted at skepticism about McConnell's vote, asking, "Is Mitch a no vote? How about Mitch?"
Hegseth's history has been a focal point of opposition, particularly among Democrats. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer labeled Hegseth "one of the most erratic, unqualified, and unfit cabinet nominees we have ever seen in modern times." Schumer further argued, "Is this man, with a history of excessive drinking, really the guy you want on the other end of the phone at 2 a.m. in a crisis, in control of the nuclear codes?"
During his confirmation hearing earlier this month, Hegseth defended his record and denied allegations of sexual assault and financial mismanagement. He also pledged to abstain from alcohol if confirmed, stating, "This is the biggest deployment of my life, and there won't be a drop of alcohol on my lips while I'm doing it." Hegseth's lawyer, Tim Parlatore, has consistently denied the allegations, while Hegseth's ex-wife has publicly stated that there was no abuse during their marriage.
Still, new concerns have emerged. An affidavit from Hegseth's former sister-in-law alleged that his behavior during his second marriage caused his then-wife to fear for her safety. Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, called the allegations "disturbing" and asserted that such behavior would disqualify any military leader from a position of authority.
