In a closely contested Senate vote, Pete Hegseth, former Fox News host, has been confirmed as President Donald Trump's Secretary of Defense. Vice President JD Vance cast the deciding vote, breaking a 50-50 tie and bringing the final tally to 51-50. President Trump celebrated the confirmation on Truth Social, stating, "Congratulations to Pete Hegseth. He will make a great Secretary of Defense!"

The confirmation process was marked by heated debate and allegations concerning Hegseth's past conduct. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) voted against the nomination, while Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) ultimately supported Hegseth, paving the way for his confirmation.

Murkowski cited concerns about Hegseth's alleged "sexual assault and excessive drinking," infidelity, and past remarks regarding women in the military as reasons for her opposition. She expressed that his acknowledged actions demonstrated a "lack of judgment unbecoming of someone leading our armed forces." Hegseth has denied all accusations of sexual, physical, and alcohol abuse.

Despite the controversy, the Concerned Veterans for America (CVA) praised Hegseth's confirmation, viewing it as an "opportunity to prioritize citizen security and prosperity, promote prudent defense strategies, and focus the Department of Defense on America’s vital interests." Previously, The New Yorker reported allegations against Hegseth related to financial mismanagement, sexual impropriety, and personal misconduct during his time at CVA.

All Democratic senators opposed Hegseth's confirmation, contrasting sharply with the unanimous confirmation of Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier in the week. As Defense Secretary, Hegseth has pledged to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the military.

President Trump also nominated former Space Force Lt. Col. Matthew Lohmeier and former Marine Lt. Col. Stuart Scheller for key positions within the Defense Department. Both individuals have been critical of the Biden administration's Pentagon policies. Lohmeier was previously dismissed from his command for expressing concerns about Marxism and diversity policies within the military, while Scheller faced court-martial for publicly criticizing military leadership regarding the Afghanistan withdrawal.

Further complicating the confirmation process were allegations of abuse against Hegseth's ex-wife by his former sister-in-law, Danielle Hegseth. However, Danielle Hegseth clarified that she never personally witnessed any abuse. Samantha Hegseth, Pete Hegseth's ex-wife, also denied any physical abuse. Senator Roger Wicker, Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, defended Hegseth and dismissed the reports as inaccurate.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer strongly opposed the nomination, deeming Hegseth "utterly unqualified." Hegseth, who has been married three times, has publicly acknowledged past infidelity. Despite his relative youth and limited experience compared to previous defense secretaries, Republican supporters argue against appointing someone deeply ingrained in the Pentagon establishment.