At his Jan. 14 nomination hearing, Hegseth described his leadership philosophy as focused on creating an “apolitical and stridently constitutional” organization rooted in performance, readiness, and merit. He pledged to work with experts to implement reforms and asserted his strength lay in his willingness to acknowledge what he did not know.
Bipartisan Concerns Over Hegseth’s Nomination
Hegseth’s confirmation faced stiff opposition from all Senate Democrats and independents, joined by Republicans Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Susan Collins of Maine, and Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, who reversed his earlier procedural vote to advance the nomination.
Murkowski cited allegations of financial mismanagement and workplace misconduct, including sexual harassment, at veterans’ organizations Hegseth previously led. She also pointed to his history of infidelities and controversial remarks opposing women in combat roles as evidence of poor judgment.
“The DOD is one of the most complex and powerful organizations in the world,” Murkowski said. “Mr. Hegseth’s prior roles in his career do not demonstrate to me that he is prepared for such immense responsibility.”
