Trump’s Pentagon nominee slams ‘anonymous smears’ during Senate grilling

Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for Secretary of Defense, faced tough questioning from the Senate Armed Services Committee on Tuesday. The hearing addressed allegations of sexual misconduct, excessive drinking, and professional misconduct, with Hegseth adamantly denying the claims.

Allegations and denials

During his testimony, the 44-year-old former Fox News personality and Army veteran criticized what he described as a “coordinated smear campaign” launched in response to his nomination in November.

“These false charges are baseless, and I categorically deny them,” Hegseth told the committee. He accused media outlets of spreading “anonymous smears” to discredit him.

Military service and qualifications

Hegseth highlighted his military experience, including deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, as evidence of his qualifications to lead the Department of Defense. He also defended his leadership abilities and commitment to the armed forces, emphasizing his dedication to rebuilding and modernizing the military.

Partisan tensions

The hearing underscored deep partisan divisions over Hegseth’s nomination. Democratic senators pressed him on the allegations, as well as concerns about his lack of senior government experience and his previous controversial remarks on issues such as civilian control of the military.

Republican senators, meanwhile, rallied to Hegseth’s defense, dismissing the allegations as politically motivated attacks. Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican member of the committee, said, “I’m confident that these claims are being used to distract from Mr. Hegseth’s strong record of service.”

Next steps

The Armed Services Committee is expected to vote on Hegseth’s confirmation in the coming days. If approved, his nomination will move to the full Senate, where he will need 50 votes for confirmation.

Hegseth’s confirmation could face challenges, with some Republican senators reportedly undecided and strong Democratic opposition. Vice President-elect J.D. Vance would be able to cast a tie-breaking vote if necessary.

The confirmation process continues to draw significant attention, with Hegseth’s supporters and detractors both weighing in on his suitability to lead the Pentagon.