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.
Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) expressed confidence in the Republican caucus’s ability to secure Hegseth’s confirmation, even if it requires working through the weekend. “The next step will be on cloture, scheduled for Thursday afternoon,” Wicker confirmed to reporters. He also dismissed the credibility of the affidavit, which includes claims that Samantha Hegseth once sought refuge in a closet out of fear for her safety. “I have not reviewed the document. My initial reaction is that I have serious doubts regarding its validity,” Wicker stated, referencing Samantha Hegseth’s denial of physical abuse. “I believe the nomination will proceed, and the next vote is set for Thursday,” he added.
Wicker acknowledged that Democrats might attempt to delay the final vote on Hegseth’s nomination, possibly pushing it to late Friday night. Prominent Republican Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a retired Air Force lawyer with significant influence on national security matters, also downplayed the allegations. “I heard what his wife stated. It did not occur. I am becoming weary of these issues being raised at the last minute,” Graham remarked. He further stated, “You have the individual who denies any physical abuse. That is sufficient for me.” When asked about allegations from Hegseth’s former sister-in-law accusing him of excessive alcohol consumption, Graham dismissed the claims, asserting his continued support for the nominee.
Democrats, however, have maintained that the affidavit presents serious concerns regarding Hegseth’s fitness for the role of Secretary of Defense. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, called the affidavit “extremely significant and credible.” He added, “These firsthand accounts raise substantial questions about Pete Hegseth’s character and readiness to lead the Department of Defense. There is no doubt he is unqualified and unprepared to serve in this critical position.”
Blumenthal’s concerns were echoed by other Senate Democrats, who criticized the timing and handling of Hegseth’s nomination process. Despite these objections, Republicans remain confident in their ability to push the nomination forward. Senators are also expected to address Hegseth’s confirmation after concluding a separate vote on Thursday for former Representative John Ratcliffe (R-Texas) to serve as CIA director. Ratcliffe, a former federal prosecutor, previously held the position of Director of National Intelligence during Trump’s first term.
Efforts to confirm Ratcliffe on Tuesday evening were delayed by opposition from Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), who emphasized the need for a thorough debate. “I believe we should engage in a thorough debate regarding Ratcliffe. Many of us have genuine concerns about someone with a history of politicizing intelligence, just as we demand a full debate on Hegseth’s nomination,” Murphy stated. He further criticized what he called a double standard by Senate Republicans. “It is ironic that Republicans obstructed numerous national security nominees during President Biden’s term and are now complaining when we request two days of discussion for one of Trump’s key national security appointees.”
The Senate’s consideration of Hegseth’s nomination has become a focal point of partisan tension, with both parties deeply divided over the nominee’s qualifications and the broader implications for national security leadership. As the confirmation process unfolds, the outcome will likely hinge on party-line votes, highlighting the polarized nature of Washington’s political landscape.
