On January 25, 2025, the United States Senate confirmed Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense by a narrow margin, following weeks of controversy surrounding allegations of sexual assault, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of experience.
The confirmation vote resulted in a 50-50 tie, with all Democrats and three Republican senators opposing Hegseth. Vice President JD Vance cast the decisive vote, marking only the second time in U.S. history that a vice president has broken a tie for a cabinet nomination.
The U.S. Constitution mandates Senate confirmation for cabinet positions after a committee hearing. Notably, former Republican leader Mitch McConnell and Senator Lisa Murkowski opposed Hegseth's nomination, citing significant concerns, including his previous statements against women serving in combat roles.
Hegseth, a former military officer and Fox News host, will lead the Department of Defense, which has an annual budget of $850 billion and employs approximately three million personnel, including soldiers, reservists, and civilians. He stated during his confirmation hearing that his primary mission is to restore a 'warrior culture' to the Pentagon.
Since his nomination announcement in November, Hegseth faced protests from opposition groups. During his Senate committee hearing, he was questioned about a 2017 sexual assault allegation, which he denies. He reached a $50,000 settlement with the accuser to avoid prosecution.
Democrats have criticized his qualifications, with Senator Tammy Duckworth asserting he is unqualified for the role. Duckworth, a combat veteran who lost her legs in Iraq, also condemned Hegseth's stance on women in combat.
Additionally, Hegseth has been accused of excessive drinking, with Senator Elizabeth Warren alleging he was intoxicated at a public event, where he reportedly made inflammatory remarks.
Despite the controversies, President Trump publicly supported Hegseth, congratulating him via a message on his platform, Social Truth.