On Friday evening, the US Senate confirmed Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defence after a dramatic tie-breaking vote. The decision came despite questions about his qualifications and allegations related to excessive drinking and inappropriate behaviour towards women.
These concerns are unusual for such a high-profile position. However, the Republican-led Senate was determined to back Hegseth, a former Fox News host and combat veteran. He promised to bring a “warrior culture” to the Pentagon, helping to complete President Donald Trump’s senior national security team.
Vice President JD Vance cast the deciding vote after the vote ended 50-50. Hegseth was present at the Capitol with his family, and President Trump expressed his confidence in the nominee while heading to California to survey fire damage. Trump dismissed concerns from Senators Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, and Susan Collins, all of whom had voiced opposition.
Opposition and defence of Hegseth
Despite Hegseth’s confirmation, many critics raised concerns about his suitability for the role. Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, questioned whether Hegseth was the best candidate. Most Democrats voted against his nomination, but Senate Majority Leader John Thune defended him. He argued that Hegseth’s military background, including his service in Iraq and Afghanistan, would help shift the Pentagon’s focus back to military readiness.
Trump’s allies pressured Senate Republicans to support Hegseth’s confirmation. Senator Thom Tillis raised questions but voted in favour after lengthy conversations with him. McConnell, however, remained unconvinced, arguing that Hegseth’s desire for change wasn’t enough to qualify him for the role.
Senate debate on Hegseth’s allegations and suitability
Hegseth faced several serious allegations. One woman claimed he sexually assaulted her at a Republican conference, but Hegseth denied this, stating that the encounter was consensual. Another allegation came from his former sister-in-law, who accused him of abusive behaviour towards his second wife. Hegseth denied these claims as well, and neither party claimed domestic abuse in their divorce proceedings.
During the confirmation process, Hegseth addressed these allegations, calling them part of a “smear campaign.” He also assured senators that he would avoid drinking on the job if confirmed. His views on women serving in combat roles sparked further controversy. Senators Murkowski and Collins were concerned, but Senator Joni Ernst, a veteran and sexual assault survivor, eventually supported him after initially hesitating.
As Defence Secretary, Hegseth will oversee a military with over 2.1 million service members, approximately 780,000 civilian employees, and a budget of $850 billion. While the Senate’s confirmation process was tense and divisive, Hegseth’s appointment marks the completion of another phase of Trump’s Cabinet selections.
