WASHINGTON — Pete Hegseth, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump for the position of defense secretary, made his first public appearance before senators amid scrutiny from Democrats and support from Republicans regarding his unconventional background.
Hegseth, a combat veteran and television personality, expressed his ambition to serve as a “change agent” and “warrior” as the Republican Party calls for robust leadership at the Pentagon. In contrast, Democratic members of the committee raised concerns about his inexperience in managing a large government department, controversial comments regarding women and Black service members, and allegations surrounding excessive drinking and misconduct, questioning his suitability for the role.
Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker, a Republican from Mississippi, deemed Hegseth’s nomination “unconventional” yet likened him to Trump, suggesting this may render him an “excellent choice.” Meanwhile, Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed, the leading Democrat on the committee, articulated that Hegseth lacks “the character and the competence” required to lead the Defense Department, stating that while he has supported all previous defense secretaries, he could not back Hegseth’s nomination, claiming it would be a “slap in the face” to military personnel committed to their constitutional duties.
During Hegseth’s confirmation hearing, one key theme was his desire to reinstate a “warrior culture” at the Pentagon. He told senators that Trump’s directive was to focus the Department of Defense on warfighting, enhancing lethality, fostering meritocracy, and maintaining readiness. Republican critics have targeted President Joe Biden’s administration for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, asserting that such efforts detract from military effectiveness. Reed challenged Hegseth to clearly explain how he would address perceived weaknesses introduced by diversity efforts without compromising military leadership or operational efficacy.
Hegseth maintained that the military historically led the way in racial integration but claimed present-day diversity policies create division among troops and divert focus from merit. “Military standards need to be uniform and rigorous,” he asserted, indicating a review should be conducted on areas where standards may have been relaxed in response to diversity quotas. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a Democrat from New York, countered that his remarks on women have been damaging and detrimental to morale, stating, “You will have to change how you see women to do this job.”
Concerns were also raised regarding the thoroughness of Hegseth’s FBI background check. Senator Reed expressed reservations regarding the adequacy of the investigation, suggesting that it failed to reach out to relevant individuals for additional commentary on Hegseth’s past. The senator pointed out that the background check did not reveal any new findings beyond existing public knowledge.
In a hearing more focused on character than those of other recent defense nominees, senators left no stone unturned. While recent nominees like Lloyd Austin and Jim Mattis faced scrutiny over their military backgrounds, Hegseth endured probing questions regarding character and leadership. Despite his background in smaller organizations, Hegseth assured the committee he would surround himself with experienced personnel. “I know what I don’t know,” he remarked, acknowledging his limited management experience.
Responding to questions about allegations of sexual misconduct and excessive drinking, Hegseth refrained from directly addressing the accusations, labeling them a “coordinated smear campaign.” He expressed that while he is “not a perfect person,” he believes in the possibility of redemption. The allegations stemmed from a 2017 incident reported by a woman who claimed Hegseth assaulted her; however, Hegseth denied wrongdoing, citing consensual interaction and subsequent confidential settlement to prevent a lawsuit.
When pressed about the claims, he maintained he was cleared of any wrongdoing and pushed back against inquiries regarding his drinking, assuring senators he would abstain from alcohol in a work setting. Republicans largely dismissed the allegations, with Senator Markwayne Mullin pointing out that many senators have encountered intoxicated colleagues during votes. “We all have seen it,” he remarked, adding a note of skepticism toward the scrutiny directed at Hegseth.
