Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska have announced they will oppose the nomination of Pat Hegseth to be the next U.S. Secretary of Defense, making them the first two Republican lawmakers to oppose one of Donald Trump’s Cabinet picks. publicly rejected and raised new doubts about it. Chances of Controversial Nominee Confirmation
Murkowski indicated her opposition to Hegseth in one. statement shared on social media Thursday, in which he criticized the Fox News host and military veteran as lacking the experience and character needed to lead the Pentagon.
“After a thorough review, I must conclude that I cannot in good conscience support his nomination for Secretary of Defense,” Murkowski wrote. “I appreciate Pat Hegseth’s service to our nation, including leading troops in combat and advocating for our veterans. However, these accomplishments do not alleviate my significant concerns about his nomination.
Shortly after Murkowski’s announcement, Collins joined him in opposing a procedural motion to advance Hegseth’s nomination to a final Senate vote, detailing his concerns about the Cabinet selection. Issued a statement.
“After much consideration, I have decided to vote against Pat Hegseth’s nomination for Secretary of Defense,” Collins said. “While I appreciate his heroic military service and his ongoing commitment to our troops and their families, I am concerned that he lacks the experience and perspective necessary to succeed in the job.”
Given the Republicans’ 53-47 lead in the Senate, Hegseth can only afford to lose three of his votes, assuming every Democratic senator opposes his nomination. Hegseth overcame a procedural hurdle in the Senate on Thursday afternoon, with 51 Republicans voting to advance his nomination, but it remains unclear if he will have the support necessary for confirmation.
The test vote came a week after Hegseth’s contentious hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, where Democrats grilled the nominee on allegations of sexual misconduct, heavy drinking and financial mismanagement of two nonprofits.
On Wednesday, the top Democrat on the committee, Jack Reid of Rhode Island, confirmed that senators had received an affidavit from Hegseth’s former sister-in-law accusing him of engaging in offensive and inappropriate behavior. His family members fear for their safety. . Hegseth has denied the allegations, and his ex-wife, Samantha Hegseth, has said he never physically abused her.
Mr Murkowski added in his statement: “While the allegations of sexual abuse and excessive drinking do nothing to allay my concerns, Mr Hegseth has admitted to past behaviour, including infidelity, on numerous occasions. It shows a lack of judgment that is unbecoming of someone to lead our armed forces.”
Murkowski and Collins also cited Hegseth’s previous comments suggesting that women should not be allowed to serve in combat roles, which they disqualified during their hearing last week. had tried
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“She and I had a frank conversation in December about her past statements and her seemingly changing views,” Collins said. “I don’t believe her position on women in combat roles has changed. . Women make up about 18 percent of our active duty military. They continue to make important and valuable contributions to our national defense.
“I have long advocated that women who want to serve and can meet the strict standards of combat roles should be able to do so. And countless women have proven that they can. can accomplish this difficult feat.
Murkowski, meanwhile, concluded her statement by saying: “Given the global security environment in which we operate, it is imperative that we confirm a Secretary of Defense.[;] However, I regret that I am unable to support Mr Hegseth.”
A final vote on Hegseth’s nomination is expected in the Senate Friday night.
