In a dramatic Senate vote, Vice President J.D. Vance broke a 50-50 tie on Friday to confirm Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense after a contentious two-month battle. Hegseth, a former Army National Guard officer and Fox News host, faced allegations of sexual misconduct, financial mismanagement, and excessive drinking, leading GOP Senators Lisa Murkowski (Alaska), Susan Collins (Maine), and Mitch McConnell (Ky.) to oppose his nomination.
McConnell, a surprise “no” vote, cited doubts about Hegseth’s ability to manage the Pentagon’s $1 trillion budget and 3 million personnel. Despite these concerns, key Republicans, including Sen. Joni Ernst (Iowa), backed Hegseth, who pledged reforms and support for women in combat roles during his confirmation process.
Democrats united against the nominee, calling him unqualified and erratic, while President Trump defended Hegseth as a “good man” but acknowledged uncertainty about his confirmation.
Hegseth becomes the second-youngest defense secretary in U.S. history and is expected to implement Trump’s agenda, including ending diversity programs and reevaluating civilian protections in war zones.
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
