Will You Miss President Biden?

Democrats Fail To Stop Hegseth

During a recent Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, Pete Hegseth, President Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, faced a barrage of intense questions from Democrats, but emerged largely unscathed. The hours-long session featured pointed inquiries about his qualifications, personal life, and past controversies. Despite these attacks, no Republican senators appeared willing to derail Hegseth’s nomination, signaling strong GOP unity behind his confirmation.

Republicans, including Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, expressed confidence in Hegseth’s ability to lead the Pentagon. Ernst, a staunch advocate for women in combat and military sexual assault reform, used her time to press Hegseth on these issues. The nominee assured her that he would maintain women’s access to ground combat roles, provided they meet physical standards. He also pledged to prioritize the fight against sexual assault in the military, a key concern for Senator Ernst.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) voiced confidence after the hearing, stressing that Hegseth had effectively defended himself against the allegations raised by Democrats. “Every report I’ve had suggests that he acquitted himself extremely well,” Thune remarked, emphasizing that Hegseth had made a compelling case for his nomination.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) similarly supported Hegseth, noting that Democratic attacks had been overly personal and lacked substance. “With today’s performance, I believe Pete Hegseth’s path to confirmation has been assured,” Graham stated, praising Hegseth’s readiness for the position.

Despite attempts by Democrats like Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) to question Hegseth’s character, including raising a sexual assault accusation from 2017, Republicans rallied around the nominee. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) pointed out that the attacks on Hegseth were expected, and he had effectively responded to them. Republicans made it clear that they remained solidly behind Hegseth, with no indication that these personal accusations would sway votes.

The Senate Armed Services Committee is set to vote on Hegseth’s nomination next week, with confirmation likely before the end of January. Despite objections from Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, who raised concerns about the lack of transparency regarding Hegseth’s background check, GOP leaders are moving forward swiftly. With a majority in the Senate, Republicans appear poised to confirm Hegseth, barring any unforeseen developments. The nominee’s commitment to key Republican priorities, like military readiness and reforming the Pentagon, has helped solidify his support within the party.