Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump‘s nominee for Defence Secretary, defended himself during his Senate confirmation hearing on Tuesday, pledging to instil a “warrior culture” at the Pentagon if confirmed.
Hegseth stressed that his leadership would prioritise readiness, strength, and military discipline, citing his own experience in the Army National Guard as a foundation for transforming the military’s culture.
“It’s time to give someone with dust on his boots the helm,” Hegseth declared, aiming to bring change to an institution he sees as bogged down by bureaucracy.
Despite Hegseth’s defence, the hearing quickly turned into a confrontation, as senators questioned him about past allegations of sexual assault and reports of excessive drinking. Hegseth was asked directly about a 2017 accusation, which he dismissed as part of a “smear campaign.” He also responded to questions about his behaviour, pledging that he would abstain from alcohol if confirmed for the position.
Senators raised additional concerns about Hegseth’s lack of senior military and national security experience, which is typically expected from a Defence Secretary nominee. He was also grilled over his previous views on women in combat, a stance he had softened since his nomination.
On diversity, Hegseth opposed current policies, claiming that modern diversity and inclusion initiatives “divide” the troops and do not prioritise merit.
Despite the controversies, Hegseth’s Republican allies continued to back his nomination, calling him a “breath of fresh air” and a leader capable of shaking up the Pentagon.
With a Republican-controlled Senate, Hegseth’s confirmation could depend on whether he can win over enough votes from both parties. The over four-hour hearing marked the beginning of a weeklong marathon, with the Republican-led Senate working swiftly to confirm some of Trump’s nominees before Inauguration Day on January 20.
