Hegseth one step closer to heading the Pentagon

With a 51-49 vote, the debate on Pete Hegseth’s nomination to be defense secretary ended Thursday afternoon. The vote mostly fell on party lines, with the exception of two Republican senators: Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine. 

“After thorough evaluation, I must conclude that I cannot in good conscience support his nomination for secretary of defense,” Murkowski said in a post on X. “I did not make this decision lightly; I take my constitutional responsibility to provide advice and consent with the utmost seriousness.”

“Although he has recently revised his statements on women in combat since being nominated, I remain concerned about the message that confirming Mr. Hegseth sends to women currently serving and those aspiring to join,” Murkowski followed. “While the allegations of sexual assault and excessive drinking do nothing to quiet my concerns, the past behaviors Mr. Hegseth has admitted to, including infidelity on multiple occasions, demonstrate a lack of judgment that is unbecoming of someone who would lead our armed forces.”

Senator Collins expressed similar thoughts, arguing that while she values his service, she is “concerned that he does not have the experience and perspective necessary to succeed in the job.”

After the unanimous confirmation of now-secretary of state Marco Rubio made him President Donald Trump’s first cabinet member Monday, all eyes are now on Hegseth, who will move to the final stage of the process Friday. 

Oklahoma senator Markwayne Mullin said today, “Combat veteran Pete Hegseth will be confirmed as your next secretary of defense.” 

Mullin, during Hegseth’s hearing, drew attention for his remarks about elected officials’ conduct. “How many senators have showed up drunk to vote at night?” Senator Mullin asked. “How many senators do you know who have gotten a divorce for cheating on their wives?”

“Did you ask them to step down? No. It’s for show. You guys make a big show and point out the hypocrisy, because the man’s made a mistake. And you want to sit up there and say he’s not qualified? Give me a joke [sic]. It’s so ridiculous that you guys hold yourself to a higher standard, and you forget you’ve got a big plank in your eye.”

That message surely stuck with some of his colleagues.