Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of President-elect Donald Trump, has expressed doubts about Pete Hegseth, Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Defense. Graham cited “disturbing” articles about Hegseth’s past, including allegations of sexual assault and salacious reports about his marriages, extramarital activities, and drinking habits.
Hegseth has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman in 2017, although he claims the encounter was consensual. He paid the woman an undisclosed amount following the accusation. Graham stated that he likes Hegseth, but wants to ensure that the nominee has the respect of young women who join the military.
Hegseth is a decorated Army combat veteran who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, and has been a host at Fox News for eight years. Trump introduced Hegseth as his nominee last month, praising his commitment to America First and his service to the country.
However, several Republican senators have expressed surprise and skepticism about the nomination, with Senator Bill Cassidy wondering who Hegseth was and Senator Lisa Murkowski saying she was surprised by the pick. Graham’s comments suggest that Hegseth’s nomination may face an uphill battle in the Senate.
