Summary
The article discusses the confirmation hearing for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for defense secretary, where he faced questions about his qualifications, past comments and allegations. The hearing also covered the release of a special counsel’s report on the president-elect’s “criminal efforts to retain power” in 2020, as well as plans by the Trump team to halt offshore wind projects.
Key Points
- Hegseth emphasized the need for the Pentagon to focus on “warfighting” and “lethality” in his opening remarks.
- Senators grilled Hegseth on his qualifications, shifting views on women in combat, and past allegations of excessive drinking and sexual assault.
- Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth questioned Hegseth’s lack of experience in international security negotiations.
- Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the committee chair for not allowing all members to review Hegseth’s FBI background check.
- Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin defended Hegseth’s personal life and qualifications, calling Democrats “hypocritical.”
- Hegseth falsely claimed there were no Chinese spy balloons during the Trump administration’s last term.
- Hegseth said he would appoint an official focused on sexual assault prevention and response if confirmed.
- Hegseth unequivocally supported Israel’s actions against Hamas, saying he supports “killing every last member of Hamas.”