Senate Hearings Intensify for Trump's Key Nominees

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his upcoming inauguration, Senate confirmation hearings are underway for key cabinet positions. Pete Hegseth, nominated for Secretary of Defense, backtracked on his previous opposition to women in combat roles amid intense scrutiny. Marco Rubio and Pam Bondi, nominated for Secretary of State and Attorney General respectively, face rigorous questioning with expectations of eventual confirmation. Russell Vought, nominated for the Office of Management and Budget, was questioned about Trump's threats to withhold federal disaster aid from California. Security measures for the inauguration include 30 miles of fencing, highlighting the heightened security concerns following the events of January 6. Democrats are pressing nominees on their independence from Trump's influence, particularly Pam Bondi, given her past defense of Trump during his first impeachment.