‘Unable to Support’: Pete Hegseth’s Path to Becoming Secretary of Defense Dealt Huge Blow as Critical Republicans Voice Opposition
Pete Hegseth’s path to becoming Secretary of Defense has been thrown into uncertainty after two key Republican senators declared they would oppose his nomination, casting a long shadow over his potential confirmation.
The former Fox News host faces a critical moment as Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Susan Collins (R-ME) have publicly announced their opposition, potentially derailing his bid to lead the Pentagon.
With Republicans holding a slim 53-47 majority in the Senate, Hegseth’s confirmation now hangs by a thread.
Murkowski’s scathing critique highlights serious concerns about Hegseth’s character and fitness for the role.
“The past behaviors Mr. Hegseth has admitted to, including infidelity on multiple occasions, demonstrate a lack of judgment that is unbecoming of someone who would lead our armed forces,” she stated, according to a shock report from Daily Mail.
“Given the global security environment we’re operating in, it is critical that we confirm a Secretary of Defense, however, I regret that I am unable to support Mr. Hegseth.”
Murkowski becomes the first Republican to publicly say she will not support Pete Hegseth, Trump's pick to be secretary of defense.
Republicans can afford only two additional defections with their 53-47 majority. https://t.co/qcWq7kzWjo
— Mike Brest (@MikeBrestDC) January 23, 2025
TTOA has reported that Hegseth’s nomination has been complicated by a series of personal allegations that have emerged, including claims of excessive drinking, infidelity and potential domestic issues.
A recently revealed sworn affidavit from Danielle Hegseth, the ex-wife of Hegseth’s brother, suggests there were concerns about his behavior during his previous marriage.
Hegseth has strenuously denied all allegations, however.
His team maintains that these claims are nothing more than a politically motivated smear campaign against a veteran seeking to transform the U.S. military, per Daily Mail.
Despite the mounting opposition, President Donald Trump remains confident.
The outlet further noted that when informed about the potential “no” votes, Trump dismissed the concerns, stating simply that there were “no surprises” and accusing Democrats of typical delaying tactics.
The confirmation process requires 51 votes in the Senate.
If Hegseth only secures 50 votes, Vice President J.D. Vance would be called upon to cast a tie-breaking vote.
This scenario becomes increasingly likely with Murkowski and Collins’s public opposition.
Sen. Collins explicitly highlighted Hegseth’s limited managerial experience, noting his leadership of two small non-profit organizations with “decidedly mixed results” as a key concern.
She emphasized the massive responsibility of the Defense Secretary role, which oversees nearly three million employees and a budget approaching $850 billion.
Other Republican lawmakers, including Sens. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and John Curtis (R-UT), have also expressed skepticism about Hegseth’s qualifications.
Murkowski additionally raised concerns about Hegseth’s previous statements regarding women in combat, praising the distinguished service of women in the military.
Hegseth did clear an initial procedural hurdle on Thursday when the Senate voted to end debate on his nomination.
A full confirmation vote is expected imminently, with the political drama continuing to unfold.
Daily Mail reported that the nominee’s ex-wife, Samantha Hegseth, has also pushed back against the allegations, stating through her lawyer that the claims are inaccurate and that there was no physical abuse in their marriage.
Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) defended Hegseth, characterizing the allegations as a “hit job” and criticizing what he calls a deceptive alliance between the Democratic Party and mainstream media, the outlet added.
As the Senate prepares for the crucial vote, all eyes are on Hegseth and whether he can overcome these significant challenges to secure the critical defense leadership position.
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Women DON’T belong in combat, they don’t. That said, these Rhinos need to go!