The US Senate has confirmed Pete Hegsett as President Donald Trump's defense secretary, the Associated Press reported, quoted by BTA.
The confirmation passed largely along party lines, despite serious objections from Democrats and concerns among some Republicans about his conduct and qualifications to lead the US armed forces.
Two Republicans, Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Senator Susan Collins of Maine, broke away from Trump and his allies, who organized a broad public campaign to achieve Hegsett's confirmation. The former military veteran and Fox News host has been accused of excessive drinking and aggressive behavior towards women, which he has denied. The vote was 51-49, with a final confirmation vote expected Friday.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer urged his colleagues to think hard: “Is this the best person to lead the greatest military in the world?“
Murkowski said the nominee's behavior “stands in stark contrast” to what is expected of the military. She also noted his previous statements that women should not serve in combat roles. Hegseth tried to play down those allegations during the hearings.
Collins said that while she appreciated Hegseth's "valiant military service and his ongoing commitment to our service members and their families," she was concerned that "he lacks the experience and perspective necessary to succeed in the job."
A simple majority of senators would be needed to confirm Hegseth's nomination. Most Republicans, who hold a 53-seat majority in the upper house of Congress, have signaled they would support the nomination, although Vice President J.D. Vance could be called upon to cast a vote if there is a tie.
National security nominees in the administration of new U.S. presidents are often the first in line for confirmation to ensure the security of the United States at home and abroad. The Senate has already overwhelmingly confirmed Marco Rubio as secretary of state by unanimous vote and confirmed John Ratcliffe as CIA director last night.
But Hegseth stands out for allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman at a Republican Party conference in California, which he denied was consensual, and for being heavily drunk at veterans events he hosted.
During the heated confirmation hearing, Hegseth dismissed the allegations of wrongdoing one by one - calling them "slander" - while touting his military credentials and vowing to bring a "military culture" to the Pentagon's top job. Hegseth also promised not to drink on the job if confirmed.