Senate Democrats Home in on Hegseth’s Past Personal Problems, as GOP Staunchly Defends Trump’s Pentagon Nominee

The only GOP lawmaker on the dais who expressed some concerns about Mr. Hegseth was Senator Ernst.

AP/Ben Curtis
Pete Hegseth, who was confirmed as President Trump's choice to be Defense secretary, pictured here at the completion of his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, at the Capitol at Washington. AP/Ben Curtis

Defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth’s personal life and lack of experience were put on trial during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Tuesday, as Democrats pressed him relentlessly on accusations of sexual assault, alcohol abuse, and claims that he had mismanaged funds for two veterans non-profits. Republicans, in turn, criticized their fellow senators for talking about personalities instead of the issues. 

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