Pete Hegseth Confirmed as US Defence Secretary
Washington, The Gulf Observer: Pete Hegseth, nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as US Defence Secretary, was confirmed by the Senate late Friday night after a tense and controversial vote. The confirmation came after several misconduct allegations, including sexual assault and infidelity, nearly derailed his appointment.
Vice-President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote in Hegseth’s favor after three Republican senators, including former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, voted against the nomination. The Senate was deadlocked at 50-50 before Vance’s decisive vote.
During his confirmation hearing, Hegseth faced tough questioning over accusations of sexual assault, alcohol abuse, and infidelity, which he has denied. The former Fox News host and combat veteran will now oversee a Department of Defense with a $849 billion budget and nearly three million employees.
Despite the controversy, Hegseth received strong support from many Republicans, although Senators Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins voted against him, citing concerns over his judgment and lack of experience for such a significant role.
McConnell, who also opposed Hegseth, criticized the nominee for his perceived lack of preparation to lead the vast department, calling the role a “daily test with staggering consequences” for national security.
In response to his critics, Hegseth reiterated his commitment to the military’s readiness and standards, emphasizing warfighting and meritocracy as his key priorities. He acknowledged his imperfections but expressed belief in the possibility of redemption.
Hegseth’s confirmation marks the second time in US history that a vice-president has cast a tie-breaking vote for a cabinet nominee, following Mike Pence’s vote in 2017 to confirm Betsy DeVos as Education Secretary.
