WATCH: ‘USA’ Chants Erupt as Pete
Pro-Pete Hegseth Supporters Rally at Senate Confirmation Hearing Amid Controversy
The Trump transition team appeared to go above and beyond during Tuesday’s Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, where Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, faced a crucial step in his confirmation process. Hegseth entered the hearing room to a hero’s welcome, greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters chanting “USA! USA!” and applauding as he made his way to the witness stand.
The hearing, expected to be one of the most contentious of Trump’s national security nominations, highlighted the stark divide between Hegseth’s supporters and detractors. Dozens of pro-Hegseth attendees filled the committee room, seemingly organized by the Trump transition team, to bolster the nominee’s public image and defend him against what they view as politically motivated attacks. This strategic move appeared designed to counterbalance the presence of liberal protesters, who are often vocal in hearings of this nature.
Hegseth, a former Fox News host and military veteran, seemed unfazed by the controversy surrounding his nomination as he confidently navigated the aisle toward his seat. Smiling, shaking hands, and acknowledging supporters, he displayed the charisma and camera-ready demeanor that helped define his career in media. “Thank you,” Hegseth mouthed to his audience as the crowd erupted into a 30-second chant of “USA! USA!” The nominee paused to shake hands with several senators on the panel, a gesture that further endeared him to his supporters in the room.
