Top GOP Senators Signal Support for Trump’s FBI and Pentagon Picks
Top Republican senators have signaled their support for President-elect Donald Trump’s plans to oust current FBI Director Christopher Wray and replace him with Kahsh Patel, a firebrand loyalist. Trump has also chosen Pete Hegseth, a veteran and former Fox News host, to run the Pentagon, despite facing a slate of misconduct allegations.
Senator Joni Ernst, a key potential swing vote, praised her meeting with Hegseth, saying his conversations with him have been “encouraging” and that he has committed to completing a full audit of the Pentagon and selecting a senior official who upholds the values of servicemen and women. Ernst has also expressed concerns about the allegations against Hegseth, saying that his denials of wrongdoing are “to be determined.”
Trump has continued to back Hegseth, setting up a challenge for any GOP senator who might oppose his nomination. Hegseth has denied the allegations against him and has pushed back against them, describing them as unfounded attacks.
Senator John Cornyn of Texas has indicated that he will support Patel to be FBI director, saying that his pick will “create much-needed transparency” at the agency. Cornyn has also expressed support for Hegseth, saying that he is “certainly inclined” to support him, despite the allegations against him.
Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, the incoming chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has said that he has “no confidence” in the current leadership of the FBI and has praised Patel’s willingness to make changes to the agency.
Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina has indicated that he is open to supporting Tulsi Gabbard’s confirmation as director of national intelligence, despite their disagreements on key policy issues. Graham has also expressed concerns about Hegseth, but says he is “predisposed to support nominees” and is willing to give him a chance.
The Senate’s top Republicans appear to be falling in line behind Trump’s picks, with many expressing support for Patel to lead the FBI and Hegseth to run the Pentagon. It is unclear when confirmation votes will take place, but Trump’s picks are expected to face intense scrutiny during the confirmation process.
