Pete Hegseth's nomination as defense secretary was confirmed with a 50-50 Senate vote, with Vice President J.D. Vance casting the tie-breaking vote after three Republicans opposed him. The allegations against Hegseth include sexual assault, public drunkenness, and financial mismanagement of veteran organizations. Critics highlighted his lack of executive experience. Despite these issues, President Trump expressed confidence in Hegseth's capabilities, asserting that winning was the priority, while Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell noted Hegseth's need to rise to the challenges ahead.
If four Republicans had voted with Senate Democrats to oppose Hegseth it would have sunk the nomination.
Hegseth has called any allegations against him false, the result of disgruntled employees or part of media smear campaigns against him.
Mr. Hegseth has failed, as yet, to demonstrate that he will pass this test. But as he assumes office, the consequences of failure are as high as they have ever been.
Talking to reporters in California after the vote, Trump said Hegseth would make a great defense secretary.
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