By Amanda Castro
Associate News Editor
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Defense, faced intense scrutiny during his Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on Tuesday. Under questioning from Senator Tim Kaine, Hegseth denied accusations of misconduct, including sexual assault, public drunkenness, and marital infidelity, and avoided directly answering whether such behavior should disqualify someone from leading the Pentagon.
What to Know:
- Hegseth firmly rejected the allegations against him, labeling them as "left-leaning media smear campaign" and part of a politically motivated attack. He emphasized being cleared after a full investigation but refused to discuss whether actions like sexual misconduct or excessive drinking would make a nominee unfit for the role.
- Senator Kaine challenged Hegseth over reports of inappropriate behavior, including alleged public intoxication, discriminatory remarks at work events, and incidents at a strip club. Kaine also highlighted Hegseth's personal history of infidelity, questioning whether such actions reflected poorly on his ability to lead.
- Hegseth defended his character by pointing to personal growth and redemption through his faith. He argued that his past mistakes were behind him, though Kaine questioned the sincerity of his accountability, citing inconsistencies in his testimony.
- Kaine pressed Hegseth on whether someone guilty of the behaviors he's accused of should be considered for the position. Hegseth refrained from generalizing, maintaining that in his case, the allegations were baseless and politically motivated.
Newsweek's coverage of Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing is now over.
Jan 14, 2025 at 01:47 PM EST
Hearing has wrapped
Pete Hegseth's hearing is now complete, and the Senate is now due to decide whether to allow his nomination to go through.
Jan 14, 2025 at 01:43 PM EST
Pete Hegseth confronted about seizing other countries
...
Democrat Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono suggested that former Fox News host Pete Hegseth's avoidance to answer her question suggests he "would contemplate such an order to invade Greenland and take over the Panama Canal."
Newsweek reached out to Hirono's press team and the President-elect Donald Trump transition team over email for comment.
President-elect Donald Trump has suggested that the United States should buy Greenland, which is an autonomous territory that has been part of Denmark for more than 600 years. Trump's push for Greenland aligns with his self-described "America First" policy framework, which has increasingly focused on securing critical resources and asserting U.S. economic dominance over Canada and the Panama Canal.
Greenland has access to the Arctic, where international competition has arisen in recent years as nations race to claim northern territory in hopes of accessing natural resources abundant in the region, like gold, silver, copper and uranium. The U.S. has considered acquiring Greenland several times in the past, with the most recent attempt in 2019, when Trump first brought up the idea. At a recent press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort, Trump reminded his followers of his intentions.
Read the full article by Monica Sager on Newsweek.
Jan 14, 2025 at 01:35 PM EST
Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat from Michigan, questioned Hegseth today, and posed a hypothetical, asking if Hegseth would reject an illegal order if given to him.
Hegseth did not directly answer the question, defending Donald Trump when mentioned as an example of giving the hypothetical illegal order.
Jan 14, 2025 at 01:31 PM EST
‘Anonymous smears’: Senator Kelly challenges Hegseth’s conflicting testimony
...
Senator Mark Kelly, a Democrat from Arizona, highlighted an inconsistency in Hegseth's testimony. Kelly noted that while Hegseth has presented himself as a redemption story, he has simultaneously dismissed all allegations of past misconduct as part of a "smear campaign."
"Which is it?" Kelly asked. "Have you overcome personal issues, or are you the target of a smear campaign? You can't be both."
When pressed about specific allegations of misconduct, Hegseth repeatedly labeled them as "anonymous smears." Kelly, visibly frustrated, criticized Hegseth's evasive answers. "It's clear to me that you're not being honest with us or the American people because you know the truth would disqualify you from getting the job," Kelly said.
Jan 14, 2025 at 01:22 PM EST
Senators limited to seven minutes for Hegseth questioning
During Hegseth's confirmation hearing, senators are being restricted to just seven minutes each to ask their questions. This time limit, enforced by Republican committee chairman Roger Wicker, has drawn criticism from Democrats who argue it deviates from precedent.
Senator Jack Reed, the committee's top Democrat, noted that during previous confirmation hearings for the secretary of defense role, senators were typically granted two or three rounds of questioning. The limited time has frustrated Democrats who believe the restriction hampers thorough vetting of the nominee.
However, Wicker has made it clear that no additional time will be granted.
Jan 14, 2025 at 01:14 PM EST
Duckworth quizzes Hegseth on ASEAN and international agreements
Senator Tammy Duckworth also challenged Hegseth's knowledge of international affairs by asking him to name the member countries of ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Hegseth was unable to list them accurately, incorrectly mentioning South Korea, Japan, and Australia—none of which are members. Duckworth quickly corrected him.
Jan 14, 2025 at 01:12 PM EST
Veterans line up to show support for Pete Hegseth
...
More than 200 veterans gathered outside the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C., to show their support for Pete Hegseth, who is currently undergoing his Senate confirmation hearing for Secretary of Defense.
The veterans, including over 100 Navy SEALs, marched from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to the hearing to voice their backing of the controversial nomination.
Hegseth has proved one of Trump's most controversial nominations because of his polarizing views about women in the military, his lack of experience in military leadership and his alcohol use.
There was also controversy when it was revealed that Hegseth was investigated for sexual assault in California in 2017. No charges were filed and Hegseth has "vigorously denied any and all accusations," Trump spokesman Steven Cheung told Vanity Fair.
Despite the controversy, many veterans support Hegseth, who is a combat veteran, for his intention to shake up what he sees as political correctness at the Pentagon.
Read the full story by Flynn Nicholls on Newsweek.
Jan 14, 2025 at 01:04 PM EST
Duckworth presses Hegseth on global experience and leadership competence
During Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing, Senator Tammy Duckworth questioned his qualifications in global affairs and whether he had ever conducted audits of his non-profits comparable to the audit he proposed for the Pentagon.
Hegseth responded by claiming that his leadership of the charities had been "mischaracterized" but failed to directly answer Duckworth's inquiry.
Duckworth, standing before a portrait of the Soldier's Creed, emphasized the importance of capable leadership in the military. "Troops cannot be led by someone who is not competent," she said.
Jan 14, 2025 at 12:52 PM EST
‘Yes or no, did you lead an audit?’
Senator Tammy Duckworth grilled Hegseth today, asking him to merely answer her question with a simple yes or no while he tried to give her long-winded explanations.
She also told him that he was "not qualified" and "not competent" to be secretary of defense.
Jan 14, 2025 at 12:44 PM EST
Warren questions Hegseth’s shifting stance on women in combat roles
Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts sharply questioned Pete Hegseth during his confirmation hearing over his evolving views on women serving in combat roles. Warren expressed concerns that his past behavior and comments about women in the military might disqualify him from leading the Department of Defense.
Citing a history of remarks dating back to 2013, Warren pointed to statements in which Hegseth suggested that women were not fit for combat roles and claimed their inclusion would lead to lowered military standards. She also highlighted a podcast appearance from just last year where he reiterated his opposition to women in combat.
In response, Hegseth maintained that his concerns were always about maintaining "standards," though he acknowledged his stance had shifted. Warren accused him of a politically motivated "nomination conversion," questioning the timing of his change in perspective, which came shortly after being tapped for the role.
Jan 14, 2025 at 12:38 PM EST
Amid Tuesday's Senate confirmation hearing for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for secretary of defense, MSNBC legal analyst Lisa Rubin raised a question over why Hegseth's ex-wife was not interviewed for his background check.
Newsweek reached out to Hegseth's lawyer and the Federal Bureau of Investigation via email for comment.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host, is one of Trump's most controversial Cabinet picks. Amid scrutiny over his qualifications to lead the Department of Defense and allegations regarding his personal life, he will likely face a difficult path to confirmation in the Senate.
Hegseth faced further scrutiny when it surfaced that he was accused of sexual assault eight years ago. He was not charged, and Hegseth said the allegations were false and that the encounter was consensual.
Read the full story by Natalie Venegas on Newsweek.
Jan 14, 2025 at 12:32 PM EST
Hegseth didn’t meet with Democratic senators
Several Democratic senators have confronted Hegseth about him not meeting with them.
Jan 14, 2025 at 12:31 PM EST
See the tweets by female senators on committee ahead of hearing
Here are some of the tweets by some female senators on the committee ahead of Hegseth's hearing:
Jan 14, 2025 at 12:26 PM EST
Warren and Hegseth clash over comments on women in the military
Warren and Hegseth engaged in a heated exchange during his confirmation hearing. Warren pressed Hegseth on his past public statements criticizing the role of women in the military. Specifically, she pointed to his remarks that suggested women were less effective in combat roles, a stance Hegseth has since attempted to clarify.
He reiterated that his comments were intended to emphasize the importance of maintaining "standards" in the military, not to undermine women's capabilities.
Despite his defense, Warren remained unsatisfied, intensifying the back-and-forth during the session.
Jan 14, 2025 at 12:22 PM EST
JD Vance defends Hegseth confirmation amid Senate scrutiny
Vice President-elect JD Vance expressed frustration over the Senate Democrats' handling of Pete Hegseth's confirmation process, calling their actions "grandstanding."
In a tweet, Vance questioned the focus on Hegseth, arguing that the U.S. military has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a long stretch without victories and ongoing recruitment struggles.
Jan 14, 2025 at 12:19 PM EST
Elizabeth Warren questions Hegseth
Sen. Elizabeth Warren is questioning Hegseth about his comments about women. This comes after she posted the following video yesterday:
Jan 14, 2025 at 12:15 PM EST
‘I love my country’
"I love my country and I've dedicated my life to the warfighters," Hegseth said when asked why he wanted to do this job.
"I'm doing this job for them. For all of them,
Jan 14, 2025 at 12:00 PM EST
Hegseth commits to appointing official focused on sexual assault prevention if confirmed
During his confirmation hearing, Hegseth assured Republican Senator Joni Ernst that, if confirmed as defense secretary, he would appoint a senior-level official dedicated to sexual assault prevention and response.
Ernst, who has advocated for women in the military, had several discussions with Hegseth prior to the hearing, where she emphasized the importance of addressing issues like sexual assault, women in combat, and improving Department of Defense audits.
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:55 AM EST
WATCH: Hegseth dismisses accusations as a ‘smear campaign’
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:52 AM EST
Sen. Tim Kaine takes on sexual assault accusation in Hegseth’s confirmation hearing
Sen. Tim Kaine took a leading role in probing the sexual assault accusation against Pete Hegseth during the confirmation hearing.
His line of questioning marked the most focused effort by a Democrat to address the issue, as other members of the party had previously refrained from directly confronting Hegseth on the matter.
He's grilling Hegseth on NDAs, "abusive actions," and the allegations made against Hegseth.
Kaine also questioned Hegseth's history of adultery during the confirmation hearing, asking if Hegseth would uphold his oath of office as defense secretary with the same dedication he applied to his marriage vows.
"I am shocked that you would stand here and say you're completely cleared," Kaine said when Hegseth came out in his own defense.
"Those were false charges, it was fully investigated and I've been completely cleared," Hegseth replied.
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:49 AM EST
Second round of questions unlikely in Hegseth’s confirmation hearing
According to NBC, a second round of questions for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for defense secretary, is unlikely to occur unless a majority vote overrides the bipartisan agreement. A request for a second round was initially made by Sen. Jack Reed at the start of the hearing, but a spokesperson later clarified that it would only proceed if there was a majority vote to overrule the current agreement.
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:39 AM EST
Hegseth questioned about use of military force to take over Greenland
During his confirmation hearing, Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Defense, was asked by Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-HI) whether he would consider using military force to take control of Greenland or the Panama Canal.
In response, Hegseth declined to provide a definitive answer, saying he would never publicly disclose such a decision. He said, "One of the things that President Trump is so good at is never strategically tipping his hand so I would never in this public forum give one way or another."
Hirono pressed further, suggesting that Hegseth's response indicated he might contemplate such an order, referencing the potential military use of force in both Greenland and the Panama Canal.
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:35 AM EST
Hegseth declines to pledge resignation if he drinks on the job, echoing John Tower’s past promise
During his confirmation hearing, Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump's nominee for defense secretary, was questioned by Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) regarding his pledge to abstain from alcohol.
Hegseth's promise to stay sober echoed the 1989 commitment made by John Tower, who also swore off drinking if confirmed as defense secretary. Despite Tower's vow, his history as a heavy drinker led to his rejection by the Senate.
Hirono asked Hegseth whether he would commit to resigning if he were to drink on the job. In contrast to Tower's pledge, Hegseth declined to make such a promise, raising further concerns during the tense exchange.
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:32 AM EST
Hegseth asked about sexual harassment and assault
Pete Hegseth was asked about sexual harassment, assault, and drinking on the job.
"It was fully investigated and I was completely cleared," he said, referring to his sexual assault case.
"I don't think completely cleared is accurate," Senator Mazie Hirono of Hawaii Hirono said, followed by a scoff.
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:28 AM EST
WATCH: Hegseth emphasizes frontline experience in Defense Secretary confirmation hearing
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:26 AM EST
Hegseth revises stance on women in combat roles during confirmation hearing
Hegseth revised his previous comments on women in combat roles during his Senate confirmation hearing. Hegseth, who had previously stated that women were "comparatively less effective than men" in combat situations, now acknowledges the valuable contributions of women in the military.
"Women make amazing contributions across all aspects of our battlefield," Hegseth said, adding that his prior remarks were not about the capabilities of men and women, but about maintaining high standards in the military.
Hegseth's shift in stance came in response to questions from Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire. Shaheen pressed Hegseth on his past comments, including those made in his book, where he expressed concerns about women's effectiveness in combat.
Hegseth emphasized the importance of military standards, saying, "This committee has talked a lot about standards, standards that we, unfortunately, over time, have seen eroded in certain duty positions, certain schools, certain places, which affects readiness."
However, he did not clarify how these standards had been lowered for women in specific roles or training environments.
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:20 AM EST
Hegseth faces tough questions at Senate confirmation hearing
...
Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for defense secretary, will undergo intense questioning during his Senate Armed Services Committee confirmation hearing. Several key issues are expected to be addressed during the session as he's already been grilled about his views on diversity in the military will also be scrutinized. Hegseth has criticized what he calls "woke" policies and has previously expressed opposition to women in combat roles. His current stance on these issues, and whether he plans to reverse policies on women in combat were also brought to question by several senators on the committee.
One major area of concern is Hegseth's past alcohol use, with several reports documenting instances of excessive drinking. Although he has pledged to abstain from alcohol if confirmed, it remains unclear whether this commitment will be sufficient for senators.
Hegseth will also likely be asked about a 2017 police investigation regarding a sexual assault allegation. While he denies any wrongdoing, he previously agreed to a financial settlement with the woman involved to protect his job. No charges were filed.
Another point of contention will be Hegseth's managerial experience. Compared to previous defense secretaries, Hegseth has relatively limited experience, having headed two small veterans groups that ultimately faced financial challenges. He will be pressed to address concerns about his ability to lead the Pentagon, which oversees a large budget and millions of personnel.
Lastly, senators are expected to ask Hegseth about key international policies, including his position on providing military aid to Ukraine, taking action against Iran's nuclear program, and strategies for addressing China's growing military threat.
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:14 AM EST
Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., asked Pete Hegseth to respond directly to the three protesters who interrupted his opening statement. The first protester yelled that Hegseth was a "Christian Zionist," prompting Cotton to ask Hegseth if he considers himself one.
Hegseth replied, "I'm a Christian, and I robustly support the State of Israel and its existential defense."
He added, "I support Israel destroying every last member of Hamas."
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:12 AM EST
Sen. Tom Cotton accuses Code Pink protesters of being beholden to the Chinese Communist Party
Sen. Tom Cotton criticized the Code Pink protesters who disrupted Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing, accusing them of being aligned with the Chinese Communist Party. Cotton, speaking during an aside about the protestors, labeled the group a "Chinese communist front."
Code Pink, known for its disruptive protests in Capitol Hill hearings, particularly those related to anti-Israel issues, has recently voiced opposition to U.S. policies regarding China. Their website explicitly states that "China is not our enemy" and advocates against U.S. sanctions and military expansion. The group promotes redirecting resources towards global cooperation for the benefit of people and the planet.
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:04 AM EST
Three arrested during hegseth confirmation hearing for disruption
Three people were arrested during Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing after disrupting the proceedings, according to U.S. Capitol Police.
The protesters, who interrupted Hegseth's opening statement, were charged with crowding, obstructing, or incommoding.
Jan 14, 2025 at 11:00 AM EST
Shaheen criticizes Hegseth for not meeting with Democrats ahead of confirmation hearing
Senator Jeanne Shaheen expressed disappointment during Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing after revealing that he had not responded to her request for a meeting before the hearing. Shaheen, who has been on the Senate Armed Services Committee since 2011 and confirmed six previous defense secretary nominees, noted that all of them had met with her and her Democratic colleagues ahead of their hearings.
"I was disappointed when no one ever followed up," Shaheen told Hegseth. She further questioned Hegseth, asking if he understood that, if confirmed, he would have a responsibility to meet with all members of the committee, not just Republicans. In response, Hegseth assured Shaheen that he looked forward to working with her, emphasizing, "National defense is not partisan. It should not be about Republicans or Democrats."
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:55 AM EST
Hegseth dismisses questions and scoffs at Reed during confirmation hearing
During Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing, his responses to Senator Jack Reed's questions sparked tension. In one notable exchange, Reed asked Hegseth to clarify the term "JAG Off," referring to military lawyers who prioritize personal agendas over the needs of soldiers.
Hegseth initially dismissed the request, scoffing at the question and claiming that troops understood the term. After further pressure from Reed, Hegseth reluctantly explained that it referred to military lawyers who put their priorities before those of the warfighters.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:49 AM EST
Reed calls for full committee review of FBI background check on Hegseth
Senator Jack Reed, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, raised concerns over the FBI background check report on Pete Hegseth, stating that it was "incomplete." Reed, who along with Chairman Roger Wicker has seen the report, requested that the full committee be allowed to review it for a more comprehensive evaluation.
However, Wicker rejected Reed's request, maintaining that he was following the same procedure used for previous defense secretary nominees, including Lloyd Austin and James Mattis. While Reed argued for greater transparency, Wicker pointed out that past precedents have allowed only certain committee members to access the full report.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:45 AM EST
Jeanne Shaheen grills Hegseth on past comments
Sen. Jeanne Shaheen is now grilling Hegseth on his past disparaging comments he made on women, including those about their effectiveness in war in comparison to men.
"Women in our military... have and continue to make amazing contributions to all aspects of our military," he said.
Shaheen also asked if the two women on the committee who served made the military less effective. He calls them "indispensable."
"It's not the capabilities of men and women. It's about standards," he said in his defense.
Shaheen said, "I appreciate your eleventh-hour conversion."
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:40 AM EST
Reed and Hegseth clash over military emails and DEI policies during confirmation hearing
A heated exchange unfolded when Sen. Jack Reed raised concerns about reports suggesting that military personnel had received threatening emails for supporting current Department of Defense policies. Reed referenced an email that accused officers of being "disloyal" and warned they would be removed by the incoming administration.
Hegseth responded, stating he was unaware of such communications, insisting that it was not part of his agenda, and redirected the discussion toward accountability in the military.
The confrontation intensified as Reed and Hegseth debated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies. Hegseth criticized the modern approach to DEI, claiming it hindered meritocracy and created divisions within military ranks. Reed countered, arguing that Hegseth's rhetoric often focused on undermining liberal policies that he believed were essential for military unity, rather than promoting a merit-based system.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:36 AM EST
Hegseth emphasizes frontline experience in defense secretary confirmation hearing
Pete Hegseth, nominee for Secretary of Defense, spoke about his hands-on military experience during his confirmation hearing, highlighting his service as a junior officer on the front lines in Afghanistan. He pointed out that while his biography may differ from past defense secretaries, he believes his direct combat experience sets him apart.
"I've been there," Hegseth said, detailing his time leading troops in combat, handling medevacs, and navigating battlefield challenges. He cited President-elect Donald Trump's belief that the Pentagon should be led by someone with real-world experience, rather than just credentials from academia or defense contracting. "This is not academic for me. This is my life. I led then, and I will lead now," Hegseth added, emphasizing his commitment to military leadership.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:34 AM EST
Reed requests second round of questioning for Hegseth at confirmation hearing
During Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing, Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Jack Reed requested a second round of questions for the nominee. Reed noted that many committee members wanted the opportunity for additional questioning, pointing out that it was standard practice to allow a second round in previous hearings.
However, Chairman Roger Wicker pushed back, stating that there would be sufficient time for questioning in the first round. Wicker emphasized that the committee was following the same precedent used in the confirmation of Secretary Austin, and he intended to adhere to the pre-established agreement made last December.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:31 AM EST
Senate confirmation hearing for Hegseth to feature one round of questioning
Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker announced that Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing will include one round of questioning for committee members. Each senator will have 7 minutes to ask questions, totaling approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes for the entire hearing.
This streamlined format is designed to allow for a thorough yet efficient review of Hegseth's qualifications for the position of Secretary of Defense. The hearing is expected to cover a range of topics, including his military background and any concerns raised about his personal conduct.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:29 AM EST
Hegseth dismisses accusations as a ‘smear campaign’
During his confirmation hearing, Pete Hegseth, nominee for Secretary of Defense, addressed accusations of excessive drinking and womanizing, labeling them a "coordinated smear campaign orchestrated in the media against us."
Hegseth claimed the allegations stemmed from "second and third-hand accounts" and were politically motivated, targeting former President Donald Trump rather than himself.
Notably, Hegseth did not directly address the accusations or deny engaging in drinking or womanizing when questioned by Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker.
The allegations have drawn scrutiny, with critics questioning his suitability for the role while supporters emphasize his military service and leadership credentials.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:21 AM EST
Opening statement nearly word for word as was written
Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing for Defense Secretary was marked by interruptions, as protesters disrupted his opening statement three times. Despite the disturbances, Hegseth stayed composed and largely adhered to his prepared remarks.
In his statement, Hegseth emphasized his commitment to service members, declaring, "My only special interest is the warfighter."
"I'm not a perfect person, but redemption is real," Hegseth said today.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:16 AM EST
Protesters interrupt Hegseth confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill
Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing for Defense Secretary was disrupted by multiple protests, prompting swift action by authorities.
Sen. Ryan Whitker, chairing the hearing, commended Capitol Police for their response, stating: "I want to thank the authorities for the swift reaction to that outburst and state that similar interruptions will be treated in like manner."
Hegseth expressed gratitude, saying, "Thank you for figuratively and literally having my back."
The disruptions included a woman in military camouflage whose remarks were inaudible, followed by a man in pink military-style attire filming her. A third protester, carried out by Capitol Police while shouting incoherently, was forcibly removed as he lay sideways.
Whitker addressed the repeated interruptions, asserting, "I see a pattern attempting to be inflicted on the committee, and we're simply not going to tolerate it."
The incidents highlight tensions surrounding Hegseth's controversial nomination.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:10 AM EST
Opening statement interrupted three times
Hegseth's opening statement was interrupted by three different outbursts from the audience.
Wicker said that the Capitol police will remove those who interrupt the hearings, and so far, they have done so quickly.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:07 AM EST
Hegseth shares opening statement
Hegseth begins his opening statement by thanking Chairman Roger Wicker, Sen. Jack Reed, Sen. Norm Coleman, Michael Waltz, and his wife.
Jan 14, 2025 at 10:01 AM EST
Michael Waltz is speaking for ‘a dear friend’
"I am not here today just to advocate on behalf of a future colleague, but to speak on behalf of someone I consider a dear friend," Michael Waltz said, launching into his opening statement where he explained his friendship and history with Hegseth in the army.
"In my humble opinion, our military deserves better than it's getting," Waltz said. "Ladies and gentlemen, it is time for change."
Jan 14, 2025 at 09:56 AM EST
Former Sen. Norm Coleman calls Hegseth ‘the real deal’
Former Sen. Norm Coleman, R-Minn, was called as a witness for Hegseth and called him "the real deal."
"Pete Hegseth is an out-of-the-box nominee," he added.
Jan 14, 2025 at 09:52 AM EST
Sen. Jack Reed opposes Pete Hegseth’s defense secretary nomination
Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), the ranking Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, will formally oppose Pete Hegseth's nomination for Defense Secretary.
In prepared remarks for his Tuesday speech, Reed stated that Hegseth lacks the experience, wisdom, and character necessary for the position, emphasizing the role's requirement for a nonpartisan and responsible leader.
"Mr. Hegseth, I don't believe that you're qualified to meet the overall demands of this job," Reed said.
Reed expressed concern over Hegseth's past writings, remarks, and reports of alleged excessive drinking and sexual assault, which Hegseth has denied. Reed argued that these allegations, along with Hegseth's conduct, would disqualify him from a leadership position in the military.
Jan 14, 2025 at 09:49 AM EST
Hegseth arrives for confirmation hearing with thumbs-up, no comments
Hegseth arrived on Capitol Hill for his confirmation hearing, offering a thumbs-up to waiting cameras. However, he refrained from answering any questions posed by reporters as he made his way into the hearing.
Jan 14, 2025 at 09:40 AM EST
Hegseth to Senate: Time for change at Pentagon
Pete Hegseth, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as the Secretary of Defense, is set to deliver his opening statement before the Senate Armed Services Committee this morning. In his remarks, Hegseth will acknowledge that his background differs from those of recent Defense Secretaries.
"I don't have a similar biography to Defense Secretaries of the last 30 years," he will say, stressing that his hands-on experience is exactly what the Pentagon needs.
"It's time to give someone with dust on his boots the helm," Hegseth will argue, positioning himself as an outsider ready to bring a fresh perspective to the Department of Defense.
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines