[A group of Democrats on the Senate Armed Services Committee have expressed deep concerns over allegations against Pete Hegseth, a Trump’s pick to run the Pentagon, disqualifying him from serving as the next Secretary of Defense. Despite Hegseth’s denials, allegations of sexual assault and harassment have surfaced, and the Democrats have called for the withdrawal of the nomination.
The letter, signed by Senators Elizabeth Warren, Richard Blumenthal, Tammy Duckworth, Kirsten Gillibrand, Mazie Hirono, Tim Kaine, and Jacky Rosen, also expressed concerns over Hegseth’s controversial comments on women serving in combat roles. The senators warned that his views would drive away potential recruits and women already serving in the armed forces, citing the military’s need to build up enlistments.
Hegseth has faced a tough confirmation process, with allegations emerging related to his workplace behavior and treatment of women, including a surfaced sexual assault accusation from 2017. The Democrats have also criticized Hegseth’s previous comments, which they say ignore the significant role women have played in combat roles in the US.
The Trump administration has vowed to stand behind Hegseth’s nomination, and the nominee needs only a simple majority in the Senate to secure confirmation. However, the group of Democrats has asked the Trump transition team to answer several questions about Hegseth by December 30.
Hegseth has made several controversial statements on national security issues, including expressing his opposition to women in combat roles. However, in a recent interview, he claimed to support “all women serving in our military.” It remains to be seen how Hegseth’s nomination will play out in the Senate.
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