President Trump's nominee for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, advanced in a procedural vote despite opposition from Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski. Murkowski expressed concerns over Hegseth's character, leadership experience, and views on women in combat, while Collins cited his perspective on women in combat as a reason for her opposition.
Pete Hegseth , the nominee for Defense Secretary by President Donald Trump , saw his nomination advance in a procedural vote on Thursday, securing 51 votes against 49. This development came despite opposition from two Republican senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski , who cast their votes against Hegseth. Murkowski, representing Alaska, became the first Republican to publicly oppose Trump's nominee before the Senate confirmation vote.
She expressed her inability to support Hegseth, citing concerns about his character, leadership experience, and views on women in combat. Murkowski highlighted the importance of a Defense Secretary embodying the expected standards of behavior and character for servicemembers, stating that Hegseth's nomination raised significant concerns she couldn't ignore. Collins, representing Maine, echoed Murkowski's concerns, stating that she wouldn't vote for Hegseth due to his perspective on women in combat. Hegseth faced scrutiny during his confirmation hearing, with Democrats pressing him on his views on women in the military and allegations of sexual assault. Prior to the nomination, reports surfaced regarding an alleged sexual assault, excessive drinking, and financial mismanagement of veterans' organizations Hegseth had led. Hegseth engaged in a campaign to meet with Republican senators, aiming to alleviate concerns and demonstrate his capabilities. Hegseth still requires a simple majority in the Senate for confirmation, with Vice President JD Vance holding the power to break a tie. He can lose no more than three Republican votes. While facing opposition, Hegseth secured the support of Iowa Senator Joni Ernst, who expressed her backing after his confirmation hearing. Murkowski, after reviewing Hegseth's writings, engaging with constituents, veterans, and organizations, concluded she couldn't in good conscience support his nomination for Secretary of Defense.
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