Key Takeaways from Pete Hegseth’s Senate Confirmation Hearing for Defense Secretary
Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Defense Secretary, faced a heated Senate confirmation hearing on Tuesday, where he defended his qualifications and vision for the Pentagon. Drawing on his experience as an Army National Guard veteran, Hegseth emphasized his commitment to military readiness, discipline, and a “warrior ethos,” while outlining plans for cultural reform within the military.
However, the hearing quickly became contentious as senators grilled him on past allegations and questioned his suitability for the high-profile role. Here’s how Hegseth responded to key concerns during the proceedings:
Allegations of Sexual Misconduct
Hegseth was pressed on past allegations, with Senator Tim Kaine directly questioning his character:
“Can you so casually cheat on a second wife and cheat on the mother of a child two months before? How is that completely cleared?”
Hegseth firmly denied the allegations, stating:
“I have been falsely charged—completely, fully investigated, and completely cleared.”
Public Drunkenness Allegations
Senator Mark Kelly brought up an incident from Memorial Day 2014, alleging that Hegseth had to be carried out of a Concerned Veterans of America (CVA) event due to intoxication. Hegseth dismissed the claim as “anonymous smears.”
Senator Mazie Hirono then questioned whether he would resign if he broke his pledge to abstain from alcohol while serving as Defense Secretary. Hegseth responded,
“I have made the commitment not to drink.”
Women in the Military
Hegseth’s past statements on women in combat roles became a focal point. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand asked him to clarify his stance.
Hegseth responded:
“I respect every female service member who has worn the uniform, past and present. My critiques… have been in instances where I’ve seen standards lowered.”
Military Leadership and “Wokeness”
Senator Kevin Cramer encouraged Hegseth to give military leaders a chance under new leadership, despite discussions about removing “woke” generals.
Hegseth asserted:
“When Donald Trump is sworn in, he will issue a new set of lawful orders, and the leadership of our services will have an opportunity to follow those orders or not.”
“In Donald Trump’s Pentagon, there will be real standards for success.”
Jerusalem Cross Tattoo Controversy
Senator Kevin Cramer questioned Hegseth about his Jerusalem Cross tattoo, which some critics have labeled extremist.
Defending the tattoo, Hegseth called it a “historic Christian symbol.” He expressed frustration over being “identified as an extremist” for having it.
Hegseth also shared how he had received orders to guard Trump’s inauguration in Washington, D.C., but they were suddenly revoked—something he claimed had never happened before in his career.
“Jagoff” Remark from His Book
Senator Jack Reed asked Hegseth to define the term “jagoff”, which he used in his 2024 book The War on Warriors.
Initially reluctant, Hegseth eventually explained:
“It’s a JAG officer who prioritizes their own promotions and medals over supporting those on the front lines.”
Hegseth’s Senate hearing was marked by intense scrutiny and sharp exchanges, as he sought to defend his record and secure confirmation as Trump’s Defense Secretary.
