Vote Scheduled to Confirm
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) has scheduled a vote to confirm Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army veteran, as the next Secretary of Defense under President Donald Trump. This decision comes despite the emergence of a recent affidavit from Hegseth’s former sister-in-law, which has raised concerns about his suitability for the position. According to a report by The Hill on Tuesday, Senate Republicans are proceeding with the nomination following its narrow approval by the Senate Armed Services Committee.
The affidavit alleges that Hegseth has struggled with alcohol abuse and exhibited abusive behavior toward his ex-wife, Samantha Hegseth. However, Samantha Hegseth issued a public statement on Tuesday denying any allegations of violence, stating there was no physical abuse during their marriage.
On the legislative front, Thune filed a motion on Tuesday to conclude debate on Hegseth’s nomination. The motion follows a party-line vote of 14-13 by the Senate Armed Services Committee, which advanced Hegseth’s nomination shortly after Trump assumed office. This sets the stage for a procedural cloture vote scheduled for Thursday, with a final confirmation vote anticipated either on Friday or early Saturday morning.
