Senate Leader Assures Trump on Hegseth Confirmation

Senate Majority Leader John Thune has privately informed President-elect Donald Trump that Pete Hegseth is likely to secure enough votes for confirmation as Secretary of Defense. Hegseth's confirmation hearing is set for January 14, amidst allegations of past sexual misconduct and concerns regarding his alcohol use, both of which he has addressed, stating he would abstain from alcohol if appointed. While Thune has emphasized the importance of a fair confirmation process, Hegseth's past controversies, including a 2017 sexual assault allegation that prosecutors did not pursue, have raised significant questions about his suitability for the role. Hegseth and the accuser reached a confidential financial settlement in 2023. Despite the controversies, some sources suggest that Thune believes he will garner sufficient Senate support to confirm Hegseth. Other confirmation hearings are also being scheduled in the lead-up to Trump's inauguration on January 20.