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Speaker Johnson Confident in Hegseth’s Confirmation: ‘Momentum’s Moving the Right Way’

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Johnson voiced optimism about Pete Hegseth’s nomination for Pentagon chief, highlighting rising Senate backing regardless of ongoing allegations.

Home Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) on Saturday expressed confidence in Pete Hegseth’s affirmation prospects as President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for protection secretary, citing robust and rising assist on Capitol Hill.

Talking on “Fox & Mates Weekend“ on Dec. 7, Johnson described the momentum behind Hegseth’s bid as ”shifting the proper method” and defended his {qualifications} and character amid ongoing controversy. He emphasised Hegseth’s navy background and readiness to guide the Pentagon, regardless of allegations of previous misconduct which have raised questions in regards to the probability of Senate affirmation.

“I’m optimistic about it,“ Johnson stated. ”I’ve talked to quite a few senators personally on the Hill simply during the last couple of days and it looks as if the momentum’s shifting the proper method.”

Johnson added: “We’ve all made errors in our lives, however we imagine in redemption.”

Hegseth, a former Military officer and Fox Information host, has confronted allegations together with sexual misconduct and extreme ingesting, though no costs had been ever filed. This previous week, The New Yorker printed extra claims from a whistleblower report and different paperwork detailing alleged incidents of intoxication at work occasions, inappropriate conduct towards feminine staffers, and monetary mismanagement throughout Hegseth’s tenure at Involved Veterans for America. The allegations have drawn criticism, elevating questions on whether or not Hegseth’s affirmation within the Senate will succeed.

A lot of Fox Information personalities, interviewees, and different staffers have taken to social media to defend the Fox Information host from among the reported claims.
Key Senate Republicans have signaled cautious assist whereas calling for an intensive vetting course of. Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a member of the Senate Armed Providers Committee, met with Hegseth and emphasised the significance of evaluating his document. “We simply have to be sure that he’s totally vetted and that he has his alternative to go in entrance of the committee, recount his service, and rebut any allegations,” Ernst stated.
Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), who beforehand expressed reservations, voiced optimism after assembly with Hegseth this week. “I see no motive at this level to not be supportive,” Cramer stated, praising Hegseth’s readiness for the job. Equally, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) referred to as the allegations “disturbing” however careworn that nameless reviews shouldn’t dictate selections.

“When you’re not prepared to boost your hand and make the accusation, it doesn’t depend,” Graham stated.

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Trump has maintained unwavering assist for Hegseth, dismissing unfavorable protection as “faux information.” In a Fact Social put up on Friday, Trump described Hegseth as a “unbelievable, high-energy“ choose for the function of secretary of protection who would lead ”with charisma and ability.” The president-elect praised Hegseth’s navy mindset and educational credentials, and referred to as him a “WINNER.”

Regardless of the present of assist, there was media hypothesis that Trump’s transition workforce is contemplating alternate options, together with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, ought to Hegseth’s affirmation falter. Hegseth has dismissed such hypothesis and framed the scrutiny as a smear marketing campaign geared toward derailing his nomination.

“I’m doing this for the warfighters, not the warmongers,” Hegseth posted on X. “The Left is afraid of disrupters and alter brokers. They’re afraid of [Trump] and me.”

With Republicans holding a slim 53–47 majority within the Senate beginning in January 2025, any defections may derail Hegseth’s nomination. Trump’s potential Cupboard has confronted one setback, with former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), the preliminary nominee for legal professional basic, withdrawing after considerations had been raised by Senate Republicans. Trump’s choice to guide the Drug Enforcement Administration additionally dropped out of rivalry.

Senate hearings for Trump’s nominees, together with Hegseth, are anticipated to start shortly after the president-elect’s inauguration on Jan. 20, 2025.

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