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President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, endured a contentious Senate confirmation hearing on Tuesday, facing sharp criticism over past misconduct allegations, controversial views on diversity, and his qualifications to lead the Pentagon.
Hegseth, a former Army National Guard officer and Fox News contributor, emphasized his military experience during his opening remarks, pledging to foster a “warrior culture” at the Pentagon. “It’s time to give someone with dust on his boots the helm. A change agent,” he stated.
However, senators pressed Hegseth on a range of allegations, including accusations of sexual assault, excessive drinking, and marital infidelity. Dismissing these claims as part of a “smear campaign,” Hegseth admitted, “I am not a perfect person,” and pledged to abstain from alcohol if confirmed.
Democratic senators questioned his stance on diversity and inclusion, with Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), a combat veteran, asserting that Hegseth’s leadership approach undermines the military’s core values. “The troops cannot be led by someone who is not competent,” Duckworth said.
Sen. Kristen Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) took issue with Hegseth’s softened stance on women in combat roles, stating, “You will have to change how you see women to do this job.”
Republican senators rallied around Hegseth, praising his fresh perspective. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) likened him to Trump, calling him an “unconventional” leader who would “shake up the bureaucracy.”
Hegseth’s lack of senior military or national security leadership experience has raised concerns, especially given the Pentagon’s vast responsibilities, including managing a $850 billion budget and overseeing 2.1 million service members.
The nominee also faced questions about a 2017 sexual assault allegation that resulted in a confidential settlement. Hegseth denied wrongdoing, describing the encounter as consensual.
Despite the allegations and controversy, Hegseth’s supporters, including conservative advocacy groups, are running campaigns to bolster his nomination, framing him as a champion of Trump’s approach to governance.
If confirmed, Hegseth would oversee a military grappling with recruitment challenges, global crises, and domestic policy debates. As the hearing concluded, Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) remained firm in his opposition: “I do not believe that you are qualified to meet the overwhelming demands of this job.”
The Republican-led Senate faces a tight vote, with Hegseth’s confirmation uncertain amid mounting scrutiny.
