Mother of Trump Nominee Defends Him After Email Leak

The New York Times published an emotional email from Penelope Hegseth to her son, Pete Hegseth, which criticized his treatment of women during his divorce, igniting controversy as it was deemed a hit piece against Trump's Defense Secretary nominee. Penelope Hegseth later expressed regret for her initial message, clarifying that she had sent a follow-up email apologizing for her anger and emotion during a difficult time. She defended her son in subsequent interviews, stating that the sentiments in her first email were not true and labeled the publication of that email as 'disgusting.' Her initial email, sent in 2018, accused Pete of having mistreated women and displayed a lack of character, but she later asserted her son is a good father and husband. Despite her disavowal, the Times proceeded to publish the story, which was highlighted by its author, Sharon LaFraniere, on social media. Critics argue that the article reflects a targeted attack on Hegseth amid his nomination process, as other media outlets chose not to cover the leaked email.