Shaky nomination: Trump’s Defense pick Pete Hegseth faces renewed scrutiny over 2017 sexual assault allegation

Fox News host Pete Hegseth, recently nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Defense, is facing renewed scrutiny over a 2017 sexual assault allegation in California. The incident, first reported by Vanity Fair on Thursday, allegedly occurred after Hegseth spoke at a Republican women’s event in Monterey.

Details of the Allegation

According to a statement from Monterey City officials:

• The alleged assault took place at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Monterey sometime between 11:59 p.m. on October 7 and 7 a.m. the following morning.
• The person who reported the incident, whose identity remains confidential, had bruises on their right thigh. No weapons were involved.
• Police were contacted several days after the incident, but no charges were filed.

Monterey officials declined to release the full police report, citing state public records laws that exempt documents containing law enforcement analysis and conclusions.

Hegseth Denies Allegations

Hegseth’s attorney, Timothy Parlatore, called the allegations “completely false,” stating, “This was investigated by the police at the time, and they found no evidence.”

Hegseth’s Role at the Event

Hegseth had been a guest speaker at the California Federation of Republican Women’s biennial convention, where he addressed attendees during a banquet dinner.

Personal and Marital History

At the time of the alleged assault, Hegseth, now 44, was undergoing a divorce from his second wife, with whom he shares three children. The divorce was initiated after he fathered a child with a Fox News producer, now his current wife. His first marriage ended in 2009, also following infidelity.

Political Implications

The resurfacing of these allegations raises questions about Hegseth’s suitability for the high-profile role of Defense Secretary, as Senate confirmation hearings are likely to revisit his personal and professional history. While no charges were filed in the 2017 case, the controversy adds a layer of scrutiny to Trump’s latest cabinet pick.