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